Sesame oil, with its rich, nutty aroma and flavour, is a must-have in any Asian-inspired pantry. Extracted from sesame seeds, it comes in two varieties: regular sesame oil, which has a lighter flavour and is ideal for cooking, and toasted sesame oil, which is darker and more robust, used mainly as a finishing oil. Here’s how to make the most of this versatile oil in your cooking, from marinades to dressings.
10 uses of Sesame Oil
1. Stir-Fry Finisher
Drizzle toasted sesame oil over your stir-fried veggies, meats, or noodles right before serving. It adds a deep, nutty flavour without needing to cook for long, which preserves its delicate aroma.
2. Salad Dressings
Mix sesame oil with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of honey for a delicious Asian-inspired salad dressing. It’s perfect for cabbage slaws or mixed green salads and adds a warm, earthy flavour.
3. Marinades for Meat and Tofu
Sesame oil’s nutty depth pairs well in marinades for meats like beef, chicken, or pork, as well as for tofu. Combine it with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar for a flavour-packed marinade.
4. Dipping Sauce for Dumplings and Spring Rolls
Blend sesame oil with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes to create a flavourful dipping sauce. It complements dumplings, spring rolls, and even potstickers with a rich umami and subtle heat.
5. Sesame Noodles
Toss noodles with a mixture of sesame oil, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a quick and flavourful dish. Add vegetables, spring onions, and crushed peanuts for an extra satisfying meal.
6. Soup Enhancer
Stir a teaspoon of sesame oil into broths or noodle soups right before serving. It can elevate the flavour of soups like ramen, miso, or wonton soup with a distinctive, warming nuttiness.
7. Sautéing Mushrooms
Sauté mushrooms in a blend of sesame oil and a neutral oil to create an earthy, umami-rich side dish. The mushrooms will absorb the nutty flavours beautifully, making them a perfect side for rice or noodle dishes.
8. Eggs with a Twist
Fry or scramble eggs in sesame oil for a unique flavour twist. The nutty aroma pairs especially well with omelets or fried rice, giving a new dimension to everyday breakfast.
9. Rice Flavour Booster
Drizzle a small amount of sesame oil over steamed rice, fried rice, or even sushi rice to add a subtle, warm flavour. Mix it in just before serving for best results.
10. Instant Ramen Boost
Stir a teaspoon of sesame oil into a bowl of instant ramen to enhance the broth’s richness and give it a more homemade flavour. Add a soft-boiled egg and some fresh greens for a full meal.
Sesame oil is a versatile and flavour-packed ingredient with endless potential across both savoury and sweet dishes. With both toasted and regular sesame oil on hand, you’ll be ready to add a subtle yet transformative touch to a wide range of Asian and Asian-inspired recipes!
