Introduction: Sesame, also known as sesame seed, is edible and can also be pressed for oil. It originated in Africa and was later introduced to India, which has now become the world's largest producer of sesame, accounting for one-third of the world's total cultivated area. China's variety was brought back by Zhang Qian during his diplomatic missions to the Western Regions. China has a wide area of sesame cultivation, accounting for 13.5% of the world's total cultivated area.
Sesame is mainly divided into two types: white sesame and black sesame. The former has a lustrous black color, while the latter has a pure white color. White sesame is used for oil extraction. Black sesame is mostly used as an auxiliary ingredient in pastries. From a nutritional perspective, both black and white sesame are nutrient-rich foods.
Sesame is an important oil crop. Sesame oil, also known as sesame oil or fragrant oil, is used as a seasoning. It is not only delicious but also has effects such as expelling parasites, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, and treating skin diseases. Sesame oil contains sesamol, which gives it a special aroma. Chinese stone-ground sesame oil is considered a delicacy among cooking oils.
Homemade Crushed Sesame
Nutritional Components
(1) Sesame is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and also contains various vitamins and substances such as sesamin, sesamol, and lecithin.
(2) Sesame oil contains a high amount of unsaturated fatty acids, of which oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acid) accounts for 45% and linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acid) accounts for 40%. The fat content of black sesame is 46%, while that of white sesame is 40%.
(3) Sesame is also a high-fiber food. Black sesame contains 28% fiber, and white sesame contains 20%, which is an important reason why sesame helps to moisten the intestines and relieve constipation.
Fried Sesame Chili Oil
(4) Sesame is also very high in vitamin E and contains various minerals. Regular consumption of black sesame is beneficial for preventing or alleviating high blood pressure.
Medicinal Effects
Sesame stimulates the appetite and strengthens the spleen, promotes urination, and harmonizes the five organs. It aids digestion, resolves stagnation, lowers blood pressure, and can treat conditions like neurasthenia. Black sesame has excellent benefits for the liver, kidneys, blood, moisturizing, darkening hair, and beautifying the skin, making it a superior health and beauty food.
Due to its high vitamin E content, sesame oil has antioxidant effects. Regular consumption can eliminate free radicals and delay aging. In particular, its linoleic acid component can remove cholesterol attached to the walls of blood vessels.
Sesame Crisps