How to Toast Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are frequently used in many Asian cuisines. They are a major staple throughout Korean cooking and can add a distinctive taste to any meal, whether it’s stir-frys or salads.

Sesame seeds can be enjoyed in an array of ways, such as ground to make a smooth paste called tahini, toasted and enjoyed in salads or incorporated into Asian snacks.

If you find yourself craving a sweet treat, why not consider making a popular snack that has been enjoyed by many generations? A pressed sesame seed candy bar that combines toasted sesame seeds and honey.

Why Toast Sesame Seeds?

Sesame seeds can be eaten raw, but by toasting them you will enhance their nutty flavour, crunchy texture and golden brown appearance. You can add these to stir-frys, rice, salads, fish, chicken, desserts and much more!

Should Sesame Seeds be Soaked or Rinsed Before Cooking?

Before you start toasting your sesame seeds, it is recommended that the seeds are either soaked overnight or rinsed in a sieve until the water runs clear.

By soaking or rinsing the seeds you are removing some of the anti-nutrient phytic acids, which will prevent your body from being able to absorb certain nutrients.

If you choose to soak or rinse the seeds you will need to allow for a few extra minutes when cooking to ensure that the seeds turn golden brown.

How to Toast Sesame Seeds in the Oven?

1. Preheat the oven to gas mark 4/160 fan oven.
2. Spread the sesame seeds out in a single layer on a greaseproof baking sheet.
3. Occasionally stir the seeds and bake until they are golden brown and fragrant, this should take around 8-10 minutes.

How to Toast Sesame Seeds on the Stove

1. Over medium heat and in a medium-size skillet heat the sesame seeds until golden brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally. This should take around 3-5 minutes.
2. Once golden brown, immediately transfer the seeds to a plate to cool.

How to Toast Sesame Seeds in a Microwave

Although you can toast sesame seeds in the microwave, using an oven or toasting them over the stove are generally the more preferred methods.

1. Spread ½ cup of sesame seeds over a microwave-safe plate.
2. Cook on high for 2-3 minutes, stopping the microwave and stirring the seeds every 30 seconds to check for a golden brown and toasted appearance.

How to Store Toasted Sesame Seeds.

Toasted sesame seeds should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. In this particular environment, the seeds keep for up to 6 months.

You can freeze sesame seeds for a much longer period of time. The cold temperature will prevent the natural oil in the seeds from spoiling. You can keep frozen sesame seeds for up to 1 year.

To fill your kitchen with more inspiration, you can browse through our blog here, at Oriental Mart, where we post various Asian recipes and informational articles! You can also find a great selection of sesame seeds on our online Asian supermarket as well as other oriental products!