Sesame Seed Oil

A symbol of abundance and prosperity, sesame seeds are an integral part of Persian life. Our Taaseer pantry, too, is incomplete without this traditional oil

Tiny, white, and chock full of nutrition, sesame seeds have long been domesticated and cultivated in Persia. With a history going back to thousands of years, sesame has been especially popular in ancient Persian medicine. Over time, it became an essential part of Iranian culinary traditions. Today, Iranian sesame seed oil is highly valued, where it’s used in everyday meals as well for beauty and wellness purposes.

Nutritional Profile

Iranian sesame seed oil is not just flavorful—it’s also packed with nutrients that offer a variety of health benefits. Here’s a look at some of the key components that make it so nutritious:

• Healthy Fats: Sesame seed oil is rich in both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Sesamin and Sesamol: These are unique antioxidants found in sesame oil, known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. They help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall health.
• Vitamin E: Sesame oil is a great source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps promote healthy skin and protect against environmental damage. This vitamin also supports immune function and skin repair.
• Omega-6 Fatty Acids: While omega-6 fatty acids are essential for the body, it’s important to balance them with omega-3s. Sesame oil provides a good amount of omega-6, supporting brain function, skin health, and overall cellular function.
• Lignans: Sesame oil contains lignans, plant compounds that have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including improving heart health and supporting hormone balance.

Uses

Culinary

Sesame oil is a staple in Iranian kitchens, prized for its ability to elevate dishes with a mild yet distinct nutty flavor. Here’s how it’s commonly used:

• In Cooking and Stir-frying: Iranian sesame oil has a light texture that makes it perfect for sautéing or stir-frying. It adds a delicate richness to vegetables, meats, and seafood, and it pairs beautifully with garlic, ginger, and soy-based sauces.
• In Salads and Dressings: A drizzle of sesame oil can completely transform a salad. It’s often used in Persian-style dressings, combined with lemon juice, yogurt, or pomegranate molasses, to give dishes an aromatic, earthy depth.
• As a Flavor Enhancer: In many Iranian dishes, sesame oil is added as a finishing touch, drizzled over hot rice, stews, or grilled meats. Its nutty aroma enhances the flavors of dishes like kebabs or rice pilafs.
• In Sweets: In Iranian desserts, sesame oil is sometimes used to prepare halva or to add a subtle depth to sweet pastries. When combined with ingredients like sugar and honey, the sesame oil provides a smooth and slightly nutty backdrop to the sweet flavors.

Aside from its culinary appeal, Iranian sesame seed oil is renowned for its wellness enhancing properties, which have been recognized for centuries.

1. Heart Health: The combination of healthy fats and antioxidants in sesame oil helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve heart function. Its ability to lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and boost HDL (good cholesterol) makes it a heart-friendly oil.
2. Anti-Inflammatory: Thanks to its high levels of antioxidants like sesamin and sesamol, sesame oil helps combat inflammation in the body. This makes it helpful for reducing the symptoms of inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis.
3. Skin Care: The vitamin E and antioxidants in sesame oil contribute to healthy, glowing skin. It’s often used topically in Iran to moisturize dry skin, reduce the appearance of scars, and protect against sun damage. It’s even said to slow down the signs of aging by helping to improve skin elasticity and promoting collagen production.
4. Bone Health: In Iranian medicine, sesame oil has long been used to support bone health. It’s believed that the oil can help in the absorption of calcium, promoting stronger bones and potentially preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
5. Digestive Aid: Sesame oil is known to have a soothing effect on the digestive system. In traditional Iranian medicine, it’s sometimes used to alleviate constipation and promote healthy digestion by lubricating the digestive tract.
6. Hair Health: Iranian women often use sesame oil to nourish and protect their hair. It’s massaged into the scalp to improve blood circulation, promote hair growth, and reduce dandruff. The oil’s nourishing properties help keep hair shiny and soft.