5 Unexpected Ways to Use Sesame Oil in Your Cooking

Sesame oil, also known as nallennai in Tamil, is a pantry staple in many Asian cuisines. Its rich, nutty flavor adds depth and complexity to stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces. But did you know this versatile oil can be your secret weapon for far more than just Asian dishes? Explore these five unexpected ways to use sesame oil in your cooking and unlock a world of flavor possibilities.

1: Elevate Your Salads with a Nutty Twist

Salads often get a reputation for being bland. However, sesame oil can transform a simple salad into a flavor sensation. Here’s how:

• Drizzle and Toss: Incorporate a teaspoon or two of toasted sesame oil into your salad dressing. It pairs beautifully with citrusy vinaigrettes, adding a subtle nuttiness that complements fresh greens, vegetables, and fruits.
• Sesame Oil Vinaigrette: Go a step further and create a unique Asian-inspired vinaigrette. Combine toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of ginger for a flavor explosion.

2: Unleash the Magic in Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, but sesame oil adds another layer of complexity. Here are two ways to incorporate it:

• Sesame Oil Glaze: Before roasting, toss your vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots) with a mixture of olive oil, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy glaze.
• Sesame Seed Topping: Roast your vegetables plain, then sprinkle them with toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for a simple yet flavorful finish. The sesame seeds add a delightful textural contrast as well.

3: Beyond Asian Cuisine: Liven Up Your Pasta Dishes

Sesame oil can breathe new life into your pasta creations. Here’s how to get started:

• Asian-Inspired Pesto: Ditch the traditional basil pesto and create a unique sesame pesto. Blend together toasted sesame seeds, garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a touch of toasted sesame oil for a nutty and umami-rich sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta.
• Sesame Oil Drizzle: For a quick and easy upgrade, simply drizzle a teaspoon or two of toasted sesame oil over your cooked pasta dish before serving. This adds a subtle nuttiness that complements creamy sauces or simple olive oil-based pasta dishes.

4: The Breakfast Twist: Sesame Oil in Scrambled Eggs

Scrambled eggs are a breakfast staple, but sesame oil can add a surprising twist. Here’s how:

• Sesame Oil Swirl: Heat a small amount of toasted sesame oil in your pan before adding your eggs. Swirl the oil around to coat the bottom of the pan. This adds a hint of nuttiness to the scrambled eggs without overpowering the flavor.
• Sesame Seed Topping: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over your cooked scrambled eggs for a textural contrast and a nutty flavor boost. Sesame seeds also add a touch of visual appeal.

5: Don’t Forget the Dessert! Sesame Oil in Baking

Sesame oil isn’t just for savory dishes. It can add a unique twist to your baking repertoire as well.

• Sesame Oil Cookies: Explore recipes for sesame oil cookies, which are popular in some Asian cultures. These nutty and slightly sweet cookies offer a delightful departure from traditional chocolate chip cookies.
• Sesame Swirl Bread: Add a teaspoon or two of toasted sesame oil to your bread dough for a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with sweet or savory fillings.