Toasting your own sesame seeds is almost too easy
Toasting sesame seeds at home is easy and allows you to obtain a fresher flavor and the perfect level of toasting.
Sesame seeds add extra flavor to many dishes. When toasted, they acquire a nutty note and a crunchy texture that enhances dishes that would otherwise be bland.
Since they are rich in fats and oils, there's no need to add oil. Simply place them in a frying pan or baking tray; they won't stick. A frying pan, however, allows for better control over the cooking process.
On the stove, heat a skillet over medium heat so the seeds toast evenly. Pour in the seeds, let them sit for about 30 seconds, and stir them with a spatula. They'll usually be toasted in just a few minutes, so remove them from the heat and let them cool.
In the oven, preheat to 175°C and spread the seeds on a baking sheet. They take 5 to 6 minutes, but it's a good idea to stir them halfway through so they brown evenly.
Once cooled, store them in an airtight container: they stay fresh for three months, and in the refrigerator or freezer that time doubles.
Black sesame seeds also toast very well, but they are darker, so it's harder to tell when they're ready and they burn easily. You have to pay more attention to the aroma than the color. When toasted, they give off a pleasant nutty aroma.
Once toasted, the seeds can decorate sushi rolls, add a crunchy touch to vegetables, or accompany sesame noodles with spicy peanut sauce. To prepare tahini at home, simply blend them with a little olive oil in a food processor.
