Sesame – scientific name, Sesamum indicum – is an herbaceous annual plant of the Pedaliaceae family. It reaches a height of 100 cm [39 in.], bears white tubular flowers, and its small seeds are black, yellow, or white. Sesame seeds produce an oil that is greatly used in Asian cooking, which is as good as olive oil in salad dressings and in vegetable dishes.
Origin
The plant's area of origin is not known.
In Asia, it has been known for thousands of years, and it has been noted that even the ancient Greeks, Persians, and Egyptians cultivated it. Especially in Egypt, and in the Nile valley, they used it to produce pharmaceuticals.
Additionally, it is assumed that even the Babylonians – already in 2200 B.C. – used if for the production of alcoholic beverages and that they were aware of oil extraction techniques for the seeds.
WHY IT SHOULD BE EATEN
Sesame seeds are rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6, which help prevent cardiovascular issues.
They also have a good zinc content, which strengthens the immune system, and selenium that curbs the action of free radicals. They further contain potassium, protein, carbohydrates, and phosphorus, but also a large amount of calcium, which helps strengthen the bones and teeth of children, and women in menopause.
Sesame seeds help prevent stomach acid, enhance memory and concentration, and are low in calories.
Sesame seeds are white or pale yellow in color. Black ones also exist, though they are seldom used in cooking.
They are primarily used to enrich bread, focaccias, and bread sticks. They are added to salads and to vegetables.
Its seeds are mixed with honey, and used in the making of energy bars, which are especially beneficial for athletes. You can try using sesame seeds instead of breadcrumbs for breading meat, such as chicken thighs, so that they turn out especially crispy.
In Asian cuisine, they are widely used in a fluid paste, tahini, which is also the basis for preparing hummus. When lightly browned in a little salt, they become a distinctive flavoring, called gomashio, which is recommended for low-sodium diets, and is often used in macrobiotic recipes.
“Open Sesame!” It's the magic phrase in the Tale of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. The expression comes from the characteristics of the sesame itself. When ripe, they open spontaneously to release their little aromatic seeds.
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