Sesame seeds are small, oval-shaped seeds that are used in cooking to add a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to dishes. They are commonly used in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, but are also used in many other cuisines around the world.
Sesame seeds can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. They can be used as a topping for bread, buns, or crackers, or added to salads, stir-fries, and noodle dishes for added texture and flavor. Sesame seeds can also be used to make sauces, dressings, and spreads, such as tahini (a paste made from ground sesame seeds) and gomashio (a Japanese seasoning made from toasted sesame seeds and salt).
Sesame seeds can be either white or black in color, and can be found in most grocery stores, either in the spice aisle or the international foods section. When using sesame seeds in cooking, it is best to toast them in a dry pan over low heat until they are golden brown and fragrant, as this brings out their flavor and aroma.
Sesame seeds are also a good source of nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, fiber, and minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium.