Tiny seeds, big flavor. If you've ever wondered how to toast sesame seeds, you'll be amazed at how easy it really is. In less than five minutes, they go from "meh" to deeply nutty, golden brown perfection. The best part? You don't need anything fancy, just a pan, a few minutes and a watchful eye. Toasting sesame seeds is one of the easiest kitchen tricks that instantly upgrades salads, rice bowls, noodles, and stir-fries.
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Looking for more simple kitchen tricks to make everyday cooking easier? Be sure to check out our how-to collection, where you'll find recipes like how to ripen bananas in 30 minutes to make banana bread on demand, and others like homemade Cajun seasoning and taco seasoning blends that improve any meal, and quick sauce recipes like teriyaki sauce or our famous honey garlic sauce.
Why Toast Sesame Seeds?
- Toasting sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor and adds a crunch.
- It is way cheaper to buy a big bag of raw sesame seeds and roast them fresh for each meal. The aroma of freshly toasted sesame seeds is chef's kiss, delicious!
- Toasted sesame seeds make simple meals at home taste like restaurant-quality dishes.
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Ingredients You'll Need
- Sesame Seeds - That's it. One ingredient is all you need to make homemade roasted sesame seeds. White or black sesame seeds can be used.
Find the exact measurements in the recipe card below.
Ways To Use Toasted Sesame Seeds
- Sushi Bowls: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for added crunch and that classic sushi-inspired flavor.
- Potsticker Bake: Finish with a generous sprinkle to add texture and a subtle toasted depth that balances the savory sauce.
- Big Mac Salad: A simple pinch of toasted sesame seeds gives this salad a fun, slightly nutty twist that pairs beautifully with the creamy Big Mac dressing.
- Honey Garlic Salmon Bites: Add them at the end for a light crunch and to complement the sweet and savory sauce.
- Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: Stir in toasted sesame seeds (instead of raw) and use them as a garnish for a deeper, more developed flavor.
If you want to learn more kitchen tips and tricks, don't miss my easy roasted garlic cloves recipe.
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How To Make Toasted Sesame Seeds
Step 1
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, and add sesame seeds. Stir or shake frequently until the sesame seeds are golden brown and toasty. This should take 5-7 minutes.
Step 2
As soon as the sesame seeds have reached a beautiful golden brown color and have that delicious nutty aroma, they are done. Transfer them to a bowl immediately to avoid overcooking and burning the seeds.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Avoid using high heat because the sesame seeds can burn very easily.
- Do not leave them in the hot pan after cooking. The residual heat from the pan will continue to toast the sesame seeds and could cause them to burn.
- Use fresh sesame seeds for the best results and flavor. Do you have a bag of sesame seeds sitting in your pantry that is 3 years past the expiry date? It is best to toss those and start with fresh sesame seeds.
How To Store
First, let the toasted sesame seeds cool completely at room temperature before packaging them up in a ziplock bag or an airtight container. Store in the pantry or the fridge and use within 1 week for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! But it is less precise than using a skillet. To toast them in the oven, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them at 350°F for around 8-10 minutes, stirring after every couple of minutes. Keep an eye on them and pull them as soon as they are nice and golden brown.
When they are done, they will turn a light golden brown color, have a fragrant nutty smell, and you may hear a slight popping sound.
Nope! Sesame seeds toast best in a dry pan because they naturally contain oils that release during cooking.
Yes, they burn extremely easily. They can go from golden brown to burnt and scorched in a matter of a couple of seconds. Stir them frequently and watch closely to prevent them from burning.
Yes, you can. However, they are most flavorful when freshly toasted.
More Recipes That Use Sesame Seeds
These are my favorite dishes to top with freshly toasted sesame seeds:
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How To Toast Sesame Seeds
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Print Recipe Pin RecipeIngredients
- ½ cup Raw Sesame Seeds
Instructions
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sesame seeds. Stir or shake the pan frequently to prevent the seeds from burning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sesame seeds are lightly golden brown and smell nutty.
- Remove the sesame seeds immediately from the pan and transfer them to a bowl or plate to cool.
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Notes
- Sesame Seeds: White or black can be used. Black sesame seeds will not turn golden brown while roasting, so you'll have to rely solely on the nutty aroma to know when they are done. Use fresh sesame seeds for the best flavor and results.
- Avoid using high heat, as the sesame seeds can burn extremely easily.
- Do not leave the sesame seeds in the pan when they are done cooking. Residual heat from the pan will cause the seeds to burn.
- To Store: Let the sesame seeds cool completely and store in a zip-top bag or an airtight container. Keep them in the pantry or the fridge. They are best used within 1 week for optimal flavor.
- To toast sesame seeds in the oven: Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for around 8-10 minutes. Stir them every couple of minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. When they are done, transfer them to a plate or a bowl to cool.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on an online nutrition calculator and it will vary based on the ingredients that you use.
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