Goma Abura

Introduced to Japan from China during the eighth century, sesame oil was first used in preparing Chinese-style dinners at the Imperial court. Today two types of sesame oil are available, one made from toasted seeds and the other from raw seeds. While the latter type is clear and mild-flavored, the former type, which is more widely used in Japan, has a pleasing golden brown color and a rich, nutty flavor. This is the type I am referring to when I call for sesame oil in my recipes.