per 100 grams
Carbohydrates 0 g
0%
Proteins 0 g
0%
Fats 100 g
100%
Water 0 g
0%
Sugar 0 ug
Fiber 0 ug

Sesame Oil

884 Calories per 100g

What is Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil is an aromatic and flavorful cooking oil made from sesame seeds. It has been used by many different cultures for centuries and is one of the oldest culinary oils in the world. The flavor of sesame oil varies depending on the type, but it typically has a nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet taste.

The oil is pale yellow or light brown in color and is extracted from sesame seeds using one of two methods: cold-pressing or expeller-pressing. The cold-pressing method uses mechanical pressure to extract the oil, while the expeller-pressing method uses heat. Cold-pressed sesame oil is said to be more flavor-rich than the expeller-pressed variety.

In addition to its culinary uses, sesame oil has long been used medicinally. Traditionally, it has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines to treat various ailments, such as headaches, arthritis, and baldness. Today, sesame oil is gaining popularity as an ingredient in beauty products, offering healing and protective properties for the skin.

Health Benefits of Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is a nutrient-dense food rich in beneficial plant compounds and vitamins. It’s packed with antioxidants, which protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, and essential nutrients such as vitamins A, E, and K.

Sesame oil is high in both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can reduce bad cholesterol levels and thereby lower your risk of heart disease. Since it contains omega-6 fatty acids, it can also help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

In addition, some studies suggest that sesame oil may improve diabetes symptoms by lowering blood sugar levels, reducing insulin resistance, and improving triglyceride levels. Some studies have also linked sesame oil to improved nerve health, brain development, and lower risk of stroke.

Finally, sesame oil is considered a good source of antioxidants, which can protect cells from damage and help reduce the chances of developing certain cancers.

How to Use Sesame Oil

There are many different ways to use sesame oil in cooking. It is often used in Asian cooking as a flavor enhancer or as a component of sauces, marinades, and stir-fries. One of the most popular uses is to make tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds).

Sesame oil is also used as a finishing oil for dishes like salads, grilled meats, and grilled vegetables. The nutty, earthy flavor of sesame oil adds a wonderful depth to many recipes. It is also often used in dressings and dips.

When using sesame oil, it’s important to remember that it has a relatively low smoke point. The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil begins to smoke and oxidize, giving it an off flavor. As a result, sesame oil is not an ideal choice for high-heat cooking such as deep-frying.

It’s best to store sesame oil in a cool, dark place and to use it within a few months of purchase. You can also refrigerate the oil to extend its shelf life.

Conclusion

Sesame oil is a flavorful and nutrient-rich cooking oil with many potential health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is packed with antioxidants and essential vitamins. It can be used in a variety of dishes to add nutritious flavor, and it can also be used topically as a healing and protective ingredient in beauty products.