Raw sesame seeds are incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous ways to add flavor, texture, and nutritional value to your meals. You can incorporate them into both sweet and savory dishes.
Here are some practical ways to use raw sesame seeds:
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As a Topping:
- Salads: Sprinkle raw sesame seeds over your salads for a nutty crunch and added visual appeal. They pair well with various greens, vegetables, and dressings.
- Vegetable Dishes: Toss raw sesame seeds with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They enhance the flavor and texture.
- Grain Bowls: Add raw sesame seeds to grain bowls featuring quinoa, rice, or farro, along with other toppings like avocado, beans, and protein.
- Noodles: Sprinkle sesame seeds over noodle dishes, such as stir-fries or noodle salads, for added texture and nutty flavor.
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In Baked Goods:
- Breads and Rolls: Incorporate raw sesame seeds into your bread dough before baking or sprinkle them on top for a decorative and flavorful crust.
- Cookies and Crackers: Add raw sesame seeds to cookie or cracker dough for a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
- Muffins and Scones: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of muffins or scones before baking for an added visual appeal and flavor.
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In Homemade Dressings and Sauces:
- Salad Dressings: Blend raw sesame seeds into homemade salad dressings for a creamy texture and nutty flavor.
- Sauces: Incorporate raw sesame seeds into sauces for stir-fries, marinades, or dipping sauces. They add depth of flavor and can help thicken the sauce.
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As a Coating:
- Breaded Foods: Use raw sesame seeds as part of the breading for chicken, fish, or tofu. They add a crispy texture and nutty flavor.
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Making Sesame Milk:
- Similar to making almond or hemp milk, you can blend raw sesame seeds with water and strain to create homemade sesame milk.
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Toasting for Enhanced Flavor:
- Toasting sesame seeds briefly in a dry pan or oven intensifies their nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn them. Toasted sesame seeds can then be used as described above.
In addition to these methods, sesame oil, derived from sesame seeds, is a great cooking oil to incorporate into your culinary creations. Its rich flavor enhances a variety of dishes.
