Ingredient: Sesame seeds

Sesame Seeds are edible white and black oilseeds that come from the sesame or benne plants. They are typically used as a condiment, garnish, or topping but can also be turned into powder, tahini paste, or oil. Sesame seeds are characterized by a crunchy texture and a nut-like flavor with hints of sweetness, which intensify when they are baked. Roasted sesame seeds have a golden color and a distinct pleasant smell. Sesame seeds can be eaten raw and plain, but the best way to consume them is generally by mixing them with other ingredients in dishes and desserts. For instance, sesame seeds can be sprinkled over steak, bread, salad, soup, chicken, rice, hummus, potatoes candy, cookies, bagels, and even milkshakes. But it is recommended not to consume more than one tablespoon of sesame seeds a day. Sesame seeds can be sold by weight in the market or in packages at stores, and they typically last for one year in the fridge if they are raw and up to three years if they are roasted. To roast sesame seeds, these easy steps can be followed:

1. Preheat the oven at the medium/ low temperature of 350°F.

2. Put parchment paper on a baking tray.

3. Spread a thin layer of sesame seeds over the baking tray.

4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes while stirring to prevent them from burning.

5. Stop baking when their color turns brown.