tbs. sesame oil

Oils & FatsYear-round. Sesame seeds are harvested seasonally, but sesame oil is a shelf-stable processed product available consistently throughout the year.

Rich in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, including linoleic acid and oleic acid. Contains sesamin and sesamol, compounds with potential antioxidant properties, though sesame oil is primarily valued as a flavoring agent rather than a significant nutritional source.

About

Sesame oil is a flavored oil extracted from sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum), a plant native to Africa and India with a long history of cultivation in East Asian cuisine. Two primary types exist: light sesame oil, made from raw seeds and used for cooking, and dark sesame oil (also called toasted or Asian sesame oil), made from roasted seeds, which has a deep amber to brown color, pronounced nutty-smoky aroma, and rich, complex flavor. Dark sesame oil is the predominant form in East Asian cooking and is not typically used as a cooking medium due to its low smoke point (around 350°F/175°C) but rather as a finishing oil or flavor ingredient. Light sesame oil has a higher smoke point (around 450°F/232°C) and is suitable for stir-frying and general cooking.

Culinary Uses

Sesame oil is fundamental to East Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese cooking. Dark sesame oil is primarily used as a finishing oil, drizzled over completed dishes, soups, and noodles to impart nutty depth without cooking. Light sesame oil serves as a cooking medium for stir-frying, sautéing, and roasting. Sesame oil appears in dressings, marinades, dipping sauces, and cold noodle dishes. A small amount of dark sesame oil can profoundly impact flavor, making it an accent rather than a primary cooking fat. It pairs particularly well with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and scallions, and is essential in dishes such as dan dan noodles, Asian noodle salads, and miso-based preparations.

Forms & Preparations

Dark/Toasted sesame oil — Extracted from roasted sesame seeds, with deep brown color and pronounced nutty-smoky flavor; used as a finishing oil and flavor accent in small quantities.
Light/Raw sesame oil — Extracted from unroasted sesame seeds, with pale yellow color and mild, delicate flavor; used as a cooking oil for stir-frying and sautéing due to higher smoke point.
Bottled oil — Standard retail form, typically sold in glass bottles ranging from 6 to 16 fluid ounces; stored in cool, dark conditions to preserve flavor.
Infused variations — Commercially available infusions combining sesame oil with garlic, chili, or other flavorings; intended for finishing applications and dipping.