Sesame is an ancient spice, one of the first recorded plants used for its seeds. It has been used for thousands of years and is still an oil seed of worldwide significance. Apart from its green leaves used as a vegetable in Western Africa, sesame contains a multitude of oelaginous seeds which colour can vary from beige to black.
Sesame seeds are sweet and have a nutty and almond flavour enhanced by lightly toasting.
Applications : the simplest and now commonest use of sesame is as whole seeds sprinkled over cakes and breads. You can also use it on vegetables and meats, or as crunchy coating. Black sesame is an ingredient of gomassio, the Japanese tabletop condiment, and other colourful rice and noodle dishes.