Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds and sesame oil are ubiquitous in Korean cuisine. The seeds are roasted to intensify the flavor. They are sprinkled on whole or crushed and added to sauces, salads, and marinades for a nutty crunch as well as pressed into oil and paste. Roasted sesame seeds are sold in plastic jars in Asian markets. You are likely to find Japanese roasted sesame seeds. Even though they are roasted, Taekyung often reroasted them before adding them whole or crushing them. Korean roasted sesame seeds are darker in color since they are roasted longer and have a more intense flavor. They don’t need a second roasting. They are also available in large plastic jars as are crushed sesame seeds.