Sesame seed is one of the oldest oil-seed crops known, domesticated well over 3000 years ago. Sesame has many other species, most being wild and native to sub-Saharan Africa. Sesame plant, the cultivated type, originated in India and is tolerant to drought-like conditions, growing where other crops fail.
Sesame seeds have long been used as a spice and for their oil – one that’s both healthy and stable in hot climates. It is because of the latter that the seeds and oil have been utilized for cooking throughout Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East.
As a condiment, you can sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of stir-fries, salads, and soups. The untasted seeds can be used to make paste flour, which is an ingredient used in many Middle Eastern dishes. The nutty flavor and crunch go well with many kinds of baked goods, both sweet and savory.
