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Sesame Oil

tbsp

Sesame oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. It is prized in various cuisines for its nutty, toasted flavor and aroma. It exhibits a high smoke point depending on the type, making it suitable for various cooking methods, and is a significant source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. It is available in various grades, from light, refined oils to dark, intensely flavored toasted oils.

History

Sesame oil has ancient roots, with evidence of sesame cultivation dating back thousands of years in the Indus Valley Civilization. It has been a staple in culinary traditions throughout Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Its cultural significance is linked to its use in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine. Historically, it served as a cooking medium, a flavoring agent, and a preservative.

Common Uses

  • Stir-frying: Sesame oil's high smoke point makes it ideal for stir-frying vegetables, meats, and noodles, infusing the dish with its distinctive flavor.
  • Flavoring: A small amount of toasted sesame oil is often added at the end of cooking or as a finishing oil to enhance the flavor of soups, sauces, marinades, and salads.
  • Deep-frying: Refined sesame oil can be used for deep-frying foods like tempura, maintaining its stability at high temperatures and imparting a subtle flavor.
  • Dressing: It can be combined with vinegar, soy sauce, and other ingredients to create flavorful salad dressings or dipping sauces.
  • Marinades: Sesame oil is a key component in marinades for meat, poultry, and tofu, helping to tenderize and flavor the food.
  • Asian Cuisine: Widely used in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese cuisines for a wide array of dishes.
  • Cooking Grains: A small amount can enhance the flavor of rice or other cooked grains.

Storage Tips

Store sesame oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. An airtight container, such as the original bottle with a tightly sealed cap, is ideal. Refined sesame oil can last up to 2 years when stored properly, while toasted sesame oil may have a slightly shorter shelf life due to its higher volatile compound content. Refrigeration is not generally necessary unless the ambient temperature is high, but can extend shelf life.

Nutrition Facts (per 100g)

fat 100
protein 0
calories 884
carbohydrates 0

Common Substitutes

  • Peanut oil: Offers a similar high smoke point and neutral flavor, suitable for stir-frying and deep-frying.
  • Grapeseed oil: Another neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, good for general cooking.
  • Walnut oil: Adds a nutty flavor, best used as a finishing oil or in dressings, but has a lower smoke point.
  • Toasted walnut oil: A good substitute for toasted sesame oil in small amounts, adding a similar nutty aroma, but should not be heated to high temperatures.
  • Canola oil: Can be used when a neutral oil is needed but lacks the flavor of sesame oil.