It's not possible to make true sesame seed oil at home with simple kitchen tools. However, you can create a very good approximation of sesame oil by infusing sesame seeds into a neutral-tasting oil. This method captures much of the sesame flavor and aroma, providing a great substitute for cooking.
How to Infuse Sesame Flavor into Oil
Here's how to create sesame-flavored oil at home using the referenced method:
- Choose Your Oil: Select a neutral-tasting oil, such as:
- Canola oil
- Vegetable oil
- Avocado oil
- Determine the Ratio: Use a ratio of one part sesame seeds to two parts oil. For example:
| Sesame Seeds | Neutral Oil |
|---|---|
| 1/4 cup | 1/2 cup |
| 1/2 cup | 1 cup |
| 1 cup | 2 cups |
- Combine Ingredients: Place the sesame seeds and your chosen oil into a saucepan.
- Cook at Low Temperature: Heat the mixture over very low heat. The goal is to gently infuse the oil without burning the seeds.
- Monitor Closely: Cook for just a few minutes. You'll notice the oil starts to take on the sesame aroma.
- Remove from Heat: Once you smell the sesame and the seeds begin to brown slightly, immediately remove the pan from the heat.
- Strain: Allow the oil to cool slightly, then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the sesame seeds.
- Store: Transfer the infused oil to an airtight container. It should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and freshness.
Considerations:
- Type of Sesame Seeds: You can use either hulled or unhulled sesame seeds. Hulled seeds will generally result in a lighter flavor, while unhulled seeds will provide a more robust, nutty flavor.
- Don't Overheat: Overheating can cause the sesame seeds to burn, giving the oil a bitter taste.
- Infusion Time: Keep the cooking time short, as you are only aiming to infuse the flavor, not to fry the seeds.
- Not True Sesame Oil: Remember, this method produces a sesame-flavored oil, not pure, expeller-pressed sesame oil.
- Shelf Life: This infused oil will have a shorter shelf life than commercial sesame oil, so use it within a few weeks.
This infused oil is perfect for stir-fries, salad dressings, or drizzling over finished dishes. While not genuine sesame oil, it delivers a similar flavor profile, making it a great homemade alternative.
