Comparing white and black sesame

Sesame (also called «sesame») is a familiar seasoning that is used in a wide variety of dishes. However, for some time now, several varieties of it can be found on store shelves. Particularly white and black.

At the same time, black sesame is positioned as more useful, fragrant and tasty. But many housewives and owners are still in no hurry to add it to their daily diet. Let’s figure out how white sesame seeds differ from black and which one is better to use.

It should be noted right away that white and black sesame are different plant varieties, and not different processing methods (as is sometimes the case with sugar).

white sesame

White sesame has been used in cooking since ancient times. It is widely used in most cuisines and is used as a seasoning for meat and vegetable dishes, as well as baked goods. This seasoning is characterized by:

1. Pleasant nutty taste, which is not pronounced, but rather complements the aftertaste of the main dish;

2. Subtle, soft, slightly distinguishable aroma.

Sesame is often used as a decorative ingredient. Due to the small size of the seeds and their strong skin, it can be quite difficult to distinguish its taste. That is why «sesame» is more often used for sprinkling than as an aromatic additive.

However, some cuisines use this seasoning as the main ingredient. For example, Korean pickled vegetables need the addition of sesame — without it, their taste will be very mild and unusual.

Talking about the beneficial qualities of white sesamecan be distinguished:

1. High protein content. Because of this, sesame products in various forms are important ingredients in vegetarian cuisine, which is already deficient in protein compounds;

2. Many important, including fat-soluble vitamins. Sesame is an important source of vitamins E and K. This is also one of the reasons for using it in a vegetarian diet;

3. Lots of antioxidants. What’s more, several antioxidants—notably sesaminol and sesamolin—are found only in white sesame seeds. Thanks to this, «sesame» prevents premature aging of cells and tissues of the body, helps fight high cholesterol levels in the blood and has a positive effect on the appearance and condition of the skin, hair and nails.

It is worth noting that the unhusked seeds also contain a high amount of calcium and therefore may well be an alternative to dairy products in people with lactose intolerance. However, their taste qualities are at least controversial — just because of the preservation of the husk.

In addition to the low price, this product also boasts a wide distribution. You can find it in almost any grocery store, you won’t have to order from somewhere far away or search through outlets.

black sesame

Unlike white, black sesame is characterized by intense flavor and aroma. Of course, it is as nutty as that of the “competitor”, but it is much more noticeable. That is why this type of «sesame» is used as a raw material for sesame oil.

Sesame oil, in turn, is one of the most important ingredients in Asian cuisine. It is added to Korean pickled vegetables, wok noodle toppings, sauces and condiments. Also, sesame oil has such a rich taste and aroma that literally a drop of this additive can saturate the entire dish with a characteristic smell. Therefore, it must be used with caution.

It is worth noting that black sesame seeds have a characteristic bitter taste. Therefore, you should not use it in the preparation of sweet pastries. Due to its bright taste and strong aroma, black sesame is used as a seasoning for rice and vegetable dishes.

Talking about the beneficial qualities of black sesameworth mentioning:

1. A very high level of antioxidants that effectively slow down the aging of cells and tissues of the body. This is also manifested externally — the skin on the face is smoothed out, mimic wrinkles either disappear or become less deep. That is why it is used in cosmetology. You can either apply the oil directly (only with caution), or make masks based on steamed ground seeds;

2. Effective action against cholesterol. «Sesame» contains a large amount of lignans and phytosterols, which are involved in metabolic processes during the digestion of food. They both lower the level of cholesterol in the blood and prevent the formation of a new one;

3. Large amount of iron. There is so much of it that regular use of this seasoning can alleviate the course and symptoms of anemia.

Black sesame is also widely used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. There, his reception is aimed at slowing down the aging process, including loss of vision, gray hair and the appearance of ringing in the ears.

The shell of the seeds also contains a large amount of calcium. Moreover, this seasoning is often sold unhusked. So in vegetarian cuisine, it can serve as a source of calcium.

Black sesame is extremely rarely used in Eurasian, European and American cuisine, so it can be quite difficult to find it on the shelves of “our” stores. However, you can find it both in the departments of Asian cuisine in supermarkets and on the Internet.

Use in cosmetology

Both varieties can be used in cosmetic procedures — and they show the same effectiveness. The main use cases are:

1. Rubbing oil into the skin of the face. Rejuvenates, relieves puffiness, cleanses pores. But it is worth considering the strong smell;

2. Applying oil to hair. This mask improves hair color, adds shine and strengthens the follicles in the code;

3. Masks from steamed seeds. They smooth, moisturize and rejuvenate the skin.

In addition, sesame oil can be used as a massage balm.

Comparison of white and black sesame

So, white and black sesame are not too different. However, their areas of application are still somewhat different, as is the content of useful substances. Therefore, we compare these two types of seasonings.

Regardless of the variety chosen, it is worth using the unshelled version. Even white. It contains more calcium and fiber than refined. The husk also contains many useful trace elements and vitamin B1.