About Sesame Seeds

This annual herb can grow as high as seven feet tall, though most plants range two to four feet. The white to lavendar-pink flowers, similar in appearance to foxglove, mature into pods containing the edible sesame seeds which burst with a pop when the small seeds are mature. Since this process scatters the seeds, the pods are often harvested by hand before they are fully ripe. Sesame seed hulls are often removed since they contain 2 to 3 percent oxalic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of calcium and give a bitter flavor. Prime season for sesame seeds is between September and April when the new crops are harvested. A cologne is made from sesame flowers. The oilcakes left after pressing sesame oil are rich in protein and are used as cattle feed and as a subsistence food.

Sesame seed history

The English term sesame traces back to the Arabic simsim, Coptic semsem, and and early Egyptian semsent (the latter being listed in the Ebers Papyrus, a 65-feet-long scroll listing ancient herbs and spices discovered by the famous German Egyptologist, Ebers). Sesamum indicum (indicum meaning from India) is native to the East Indies. Usage dates back to 3000 B.C. Over 5,000 years ago, the Chinese burned sesame oil not only as a light source but also to make soot for their ink-blocks. African slaves brought sesame seeds, which they called benné seeds, to America, where they became a popular ingredient in Southern dishes. Through the ages, the seeds have been a source of food and oil. Sesame seed oil is still the main source of fat used in cooking in the Near and Far East.

Sesame Seed Varieties

The seeds come in a variety of colors depending on the plant variety, including shades of brown, red, black, yellow, and most commonly, a pale grayish ivory. The darker seeds are said to be more flavorful, but beware of seeds that have been dyed.

Tahini

Tahini is a paste made of ground sesame seeds which is used in many Near and Far East recipes. You can purchase it prepared in most markets, but it's easy enough to make your own. Sesame seeds are believed to be one of the first condiments as well as one of the first plants to be used for edible oil.

Sesame Seed Lore

Probably the most widely-known sesame seed reference is "Open sesame," the magic words used by Ali Baba to open the treasure cave in the classic tale, The Thousand and One Nights. Sesame was so well-known and common to the Arabs, it was suggested that this phrase would quickly be forgotten because it was so common. Other interpretations suggest the phrase comes from the manner in which the sesame seed pods burst open with a pop much like the sudden pop of a lock springing open.

Sesame Seed Selection

Sesame seeds have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and aroma which is enhanced by toasting. They are available packaged in the spice section and in bulk quantity in Middle Eastern markets. Due to their high oil content, the seeds will quickly become rancid. It's best to purchase them in small amounts and use them quickly.  To bring out the nutlike flavor of sesame seeds, spread seeds on a cookie sheet and toast in a 350-degree F. oven for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring often.

Sesame Seed storage

Unrefrigerated seeds should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to three months, refrigerated up to six months or frozen up to one year. Sesame oil, on the other hand, is remarkably stable and will keep for years without turning rancid, even in hot climates.

Sesame Seeds & Turkey

Turkey is a first class producer of the high quality Golden Sesame Seeds, a quality which is highly appreciated in high quality importing markets such as Japan. The first grade golden sesame seeds can be found in the South-West part region ( Fethiye ) of Turkey were the warm mediterranean summer is creating an excellent enviroment for growing the best golden sesame seeds.