Seed Series: Sesame Seeds

🌟 Sesame Seeds…move over hamburger bun, discover other ways to incorporate this powerful seed!

💪🏼 Sesame seeds fit into the tiny but mighty category. Native to both Africa & India, sesame seeds are considered the oldest oilseed crop in the world. They provide a subtle crunch, a nutty flavor (even though a seed), and they can be purchased shelled (black) or unshelled (white). To aid in better digestion and maximize protein availability, it is better to eat the hulled (white) seed.

💥 Numerous nutrients are jam packed into this tiny seed, including, natural oils (healthy fats), fiber, protein, iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, calcium, phosphorus, B vitamins, and vitamin E. Individually and when combined, this list of nutrients are essential in optimizing one’s overall health and well-being working to combat inflammation, aid bone health, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as provide your gut with good gut fuel.

🥯 It’s most common to add these tiny seeds to salads or on top of breads, crackers, sushi, soups, cakes, or breading for various proteins such as fish.

🥙 In addition, the seeds can be ground down to form a paste called tahini. To make tahini, sesame seeds are roasted and then ground down into a smooth creamy spread. This process creates an excellent ‘seed’ butter and also a key ingredient in hummus. Spread or dip tahini on pita, bread, or crackers for a quick and balanced snack choice. Other ways to utilize tahini are for dips, salad dressings, and enhancing various baked goods by offering a nutty flavor.

✨ Feeling ready to try one new thing today? Here are a few other easy ways to sprinkle or spread some sesame goodness into your day!

💡On top a stir fry as the finishing garnish
💡 Into granola or bars
💡 On hot or cold cereals
💡 Into yogurt or smoothies
💡 On top of toast
💡 On top of dips for a little added crunch

🤷🏼‍♀️ Unsure if you will like it as a nut butter alternative? Mix together first to ease the palate into trying and liking something new!