Introduction to Our “Seeds” Product Category

Our selection of whole and ground seeds includes some of the most powerful and popular spices for your kitchen. Staples like cumin, fennel, and mustard seeds are essentials in any spice collection. But, instead of focusing on all the seeds we carry, we're going to highlight just one in this blog. You might say that we're going to "open sesame."

White Sesame Seeds: These are probably the ones you're most familiar with. White sesame seeds have a light, nutty, and almost buttery flavor. So how do you use sesame seeds? Because these seeds are mild, they can easily be featured in both sweet and savory dishes. Popular in a variety of cuisines, you'll find them in everything from cookies and breads (and bagels!) to stir fry and salad dressing.

Toasted Sesame Seeds: These are the richer, more sophisticated version of white sesame seeds. Toasting releases the full flavor of the seeds, deepening the nutty notes. Because they essentially already cooked, these are actually better to use as a finishing touch rather than in the cooking process. They are a great garnish.

Black Sesame Seeds: While these seeds also have a nutty flavor, they are not as mild or sweet. Black sesame seeds have a earthy flavor are best after a quick toast (or rather dry roast) in a pan. Be careful when toasting, you don't want to burn the seeds or they will get bitter. Use your sense of smell to help because it's really difficult to see a difference, since the seeds are black to begin with. These seeds are commonly used in some Asian cuisines for taste, color, and texture; try in sushi rolls or rice dishes. Their unique color makes them a great garnish; try using them in combination with white or toasted sesame seeds!

Here are a few recipes that are only complete when you add one of our favorite seeds.

Adding White Sesame Seeds and chile flakes at the end of cooking these Stir-Fried Chile Mushrooms allows them to warm through for full flavor, without risking burning.

These Sesame Fig Thumbprint Cookies get infused with nutty, ground toasted sesame seeds and then garnished with a sprinkle of seeds when they come of the oven.

Toasted Sesame Seeds are a nutty garnish that complements the bright, citrusy flavor of Cambodian Lemongrass Meatballs.

Black Sesame Seeds & White Sesame Seeds are a nutty garnish for Chile Sesame Noodles.

A surprising use for Black Sesame Seeds is the visually stunning recipe for dairy-free Black Sesame Coconut Ice Cream.

What are your favorite Seeds and seed dishes? Show us by tagging @savoryspiceshop on Instagram.