How To Make Black Sesame Paste Recipe

I’m totally obsessed with this black sesame paste recipe because it’s super easy to make and adds a unique, nutty flavor to so many different dishes. Plus, I love the fact that it’s naturally sweetened with just a touch of sugar (and optional honey), making it a versatile treat that can be both indulgent and wholesome!

I love to use black sesame paste in my recipes because of its nutty flavor and nutrient profile. Made with just black sesame seeds, sugar, and a little bit of water, it’s a nutrient-dense treat.

I sometimes add honey for that touch of sweetness, but it’s optional.

Ingredients

Black Sesame Seeds:
Packed with beneficial fats and antioxidants, these seeds are heralded for their deliciously nutty flavor and as a go-to source of calcium and iron.

Sugar:
Adds sweetness that balances the slight bitterness of sesame seeds and enhances flavor.

Honey:
Optional: for a natural sweetness and a hint of floral aroma, turn to this ingredient.

It’s also got some antibacterial properties.

Ingredient Quantities

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• 1 cup black sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

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Instructions

1. Start by taking 1 cup of black sesame seeds and placing them into a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir the seeds constantly for about 3-5 minutes until they begin popping and releasing a nutty aroma.

2. Take the toasted sesame seeds off the heat and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes.

3. Move the cooled sesame seeds to a food processor or high-powered blender.

4. Using a high-speed blender or food processor, finely grind the sesame seeds into a powder. Stop every so often to scrape the sides of the container.

5. In a 1 quart saucepan, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves.

6. If you are using honey, add 1 tablespoon of it to the saucepan and mix until well incorporated.

7. Add the sugar syrup to the ground sesame seeds in the food processor, doing so gradually.

8. Mix until thick, smooth paste forms. Blend into thick, uniform paste. If it is not roughly even in mixing, keep blending until it is.

9. Sample the sesame paste and determine if it is sweet enough for your taste. If it isn’t, add sugar or honey to the paste in order to raise the sweetness level. Blend the mixture again after making these changes.

10. After finishing the black sesame paste, transfer it to a container and store that in the fridge. It is good to use for a month post-opening, within that window providing the best flavor and freshness. Instructions:
1. Place the finished paste in an airtight container.
2. Refrigerate.
3. Consume within 1 month.

Equipment Needed

1. Skillet
2. Food processor or high-powered blender
3. 1-quart saucepan
4. Spoon for stirring
5. Airtight container

FAQ

• What is black sesame paste used for?Often used in Asian desserts, black sesame paste is also commonly found in fillings for buns and serves as a flavor enhancer in both sweet and savory dishes.
• Can I store black sesame paste?You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for as long as a month.
• Is the honey necessary in this recipe?Honey is not a necessity. It provides a modest sweetness and richness your drink could otherwise lack, but if sweetness is what you’re after, feel free to substitute in any number of other liquid sweeteners.
• Can I use white sesame seeds instead?Although it is feasible, choosing to use white sesame seeds will lead to a variation in taste and color. This is because black sesame seeds impart a stronger flavor that really comes through in the final product. This flavor is what makes tahini made from black sesame seeds different from the more commonly found version made with white seeds. Some may even say it’s what makes it better.
• Do I need to toast the sesame seeds?Browning the black sesame seeds is crucial for releasing their true flavor and scent, and this is why most Japanese and Chinese recipes call for this step.
• Will the paste become solid over time?The paste can thicken with time; just mix in a little water to achieve the desired consistency before using it.

Substitutions and Variations

1 cup white sesame seeds (not black sesame seeds)
1/4 cup coconut sugar (instead of sugar)
1/4 cup milk
(substituted for water to increase creaminess in the texture)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (instead of honey)

Pro Tips

1. Toast Evenly for Better Flavor When toasting the black sesame seeds, ensure they brown evenly by stirring continuously. This step is crucial for developing a rich, nutty flavor. Avoid burning, as it will result in a bitter taste.

2. Cool Completely Before Grinding After toasting, let the sesame seeds cool completely before grinding. If they are still warm, the oils can clump, and the grinding process may not be as smooth.

3. Use a High-Speed Blender for Smooth Texture To achieve the best texture for your sesame paste, use a high-speed blender or a high-quality food processor. This will help in making the paste smoother and more uniform.

4. Adjust Sweetness Gradually Begin with the lower amount of sugar and honey suggested, as it’s easier to add more sweetness if needed. Taste the paste and adjust according to your preference, keeping in mind that too much sweetness can overpower the nutty flavor of the sesame.

5. Consider Adding Salt for Balance A pinch of salt can enhance the flavor complexity of the paste and balance the sweetness. Add it gradually to avoid overpowering the paste with saltiness.