To toast sesame seeds

Heat a frying pan over a burner until hot. Add the sesame seeds and stir occasionally. Watch them closely, and when they begin to lightly brown, about 3 to 5 minutes, stir them again and pour them onto a plate. When they are thoroughly cool, store them in a glass jar in a cool, dark place.

Alternatively, you could preheat the oven to 160°C/325°F/Gas Mark 3. Spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes until they are nicely toasted and lightly browned. Allow them to cool and place in a glass jar until you are ready to use them.