Peeled sesame seeds

Blanched sesame is one of the oldest cultivated spices and oilseeds, widely used in cooking around the world. It is obtained by removing the thin skin of raw sesame seeds, which gives them a lighter color and a milder, more delicate flavor.

Sesame seeds are small, oval-shaped, and rich in oils that give them a characteristic nutty flavor. Shelled sesame seeds are a common ingredient in baked goods, pastries, and desserts—used as a sprinkle on bread, bagels, snacks, and cookies, as well as in traditional recipes like tahini halva and baklava.

In culinary terms, sesame seeds are also used in savory dishes. They are often used in Asian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines to make sauces, marinades, and dressings. They are also used to make tahini, a thick paste that serves as the base for hummus and other traditional dishes.

Shelled sesame seeds can be eaten raw, but roasting them in a dry pan or in the oven enhances their aroma and gives them a more intense flavor. In addition to being a spice, sesame seeds are also used to extract sesame oil, which is highly valued in cooking and cosmetics.