Learn everything you’re gonna wanna know about sesame oil.
The answer largely depends on the pop in of recipes you love to make.
Sesame oil is extracted from sesame seeds.
Alison Bickel
Raw, untoasted sesame oil is most often used for cooking due to its higher smoke point.
Both varieties are made from the same single ingredient: sesame seeds.
But they have different uses and flavor profiles.
Alison Bickel
You may see it labeled as raw sesame oil, expeller-pressed sesame oil or simply sesame oil.
You will know it by its light colorit looks like canola oil.
Youll know it’s a toasted sesame oil by its dark color.
Alison Bickel
Its generally added off-heat to avoid diminishing its bold flavor.
If youre inspired byAsian recipes, youll probably want a bottle of toasted sesame oil around.
In fact, she includes it on her short-list of MVP pantry staples.
Jessica Gavin
What Does Sesame Oil Taste Like?
Untoasted sesame oil has a barely noticeable nutty or completely neutral flavor.
Dont forget to read to the ingredients listed on the label.
When you buy sesame oil, be sure to look for 100 percent pure sesame oil, says Chou.
Sometimes it can be blended with other ingredients, she says.
You dont want that.
This extends the shelf life for up to one year and prevents off or rancid flavors from forming.
It has a slightly nutty but basically neutral flavor that works well in a wide variety of cuisines.
Its great for cold salads.
Because the dishes are cold, the aroma of the oil is preserved.
Sesame oil is also wonderful drizzled over simply steamed fish, chicken, and vegetables.
Pro tip: try it instead of butter on your next batch of popcorn.
Sesame oil is a mainstay in Asian-inspired recipes such as stir-fries, noodle dishes, and soups.
Good choices include canola, sunflower, rapeseed, and pure olive oil.
Its a little harder to find the perfect sub for dark sesame oil.
Roasted peanut or walnut oil can be substituted if you have those.
In some cases, you might want to use whole toasted sesame seeds to hit the right flavor notes.
Other times, tahini (sesame paste) can fill in.
