When it comes to cooking, there are always a few ingredients that can be tricky to replace. Sesame seeds are one of those ingredients for many cooks.
There are many reasons you might want to replace sesame seeds in a recipe. Maybe you’re allergic or out of them and don’t want to run to the store.
Whatever the reason, we’ve got you covered! This blog post will list delicious substitutes for sesame seeds that will work in every recipe.
We’ll also give you the exact ratios to make your dish perfect. Let’s get started!
Sesame Seeds Substitutes:
- Black sesame seeds
- White sesame seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Flax seeds
- Hemp seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Chia seeds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Chopped nuts
- Sesame oil
Black sesame seeds
Black sesame seeds are the most nutritious variant of all three colors of sesame. These seeds are slightly sweet with a nutty taste and a deep aroma. The texture is crunchy yet tender. The color of black sesame paste is quite intense, opaque, and rich.
The unbroken seeds will give the food a nice crunch, while the broken ones will have a smoother texture. The paste can be used as a flavoring or coloring agent in many dishes.
Black sesame seeds have been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. The seeds are believed to be able to cure anxiety and insomnia. They are also said to improve digestion and help with constipation.
Black sesame paste is a popular ingredient in many Asian desserts and sweets. The paste is made by grinding the roasted black sesame seeds into a fine powder.
The paste can be used to make black sesame ice cream, black sesame pudding, black sesame soup, and black sesame balls.
White sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are a common ingredient in many Asian dishes, giving them a nutty flavor and pleasant crunch. However, white sesame seeds can be a perfect substitute in many cases. Because they have a stronger flavor, they can be used topping on dishes like sushi or salad, where they will stand out.
Additionally, they can be used in a stir-fry to give the dish an extra flavor boost. And since they are already light in color, they won’t change the dish’s appearance.
So whether you’re looking to add more flavor or simply want to change things up, white sesame seeds are a great option.
Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds are an excellent substitute for sesame seeds. They are a superfood, rich in vitamin E and other nutrients.
They can be used in salads, bread, and meat dishes. Furthermore, you can just munch on roasted sunflower seeds as a healthy snack.
Sunflower seeds have many health benefits, including improving heart health, lowering cholesterol levels, and reducing inflammation.
They are also a good source of protein and can help with weight loss. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to sesame seeds, sunflower seeds are a great option.
Flax seeds
Flax seeds are a healthy substitute for sesame seeds. They may be used in bread and dessert. Flax seeds are rich in fiber, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The lignans present in flaxseeds can also reduce the risk of breast cancer.
A quarter cup of flaxseed contains about 4-7 grams of protein. Additionally, flaxseed is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are beneficial for heart health. Including flaxseed in your diet may help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Additionally, you can use flax seeds in both sweet and savory dishes to get the perfect crunch.
Hemp seeds
Hemp seeds hearts are the perfect substitute for sesame seeds. They have a milder flavor and aroma and can be consumed on their own or used in breakfast oats. You can also use hemp seeds as a salad topping.
The benefits of using hemp seeds hearts as a substitute for sesame seeds include:
- They are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
- Hemp seeds are a good source of protein, essential fatty acids, and minerals.
- They are also a good source of fiber.
- Hemp hearts are also a good choice for people trying to avoid soy-based products.
Poppy seeds
In cooking, poppy seeds can be used to substitute for sesame seeds. They are smaller in size and have a distinct flavor that is nutty and slightly sweet.
Poppy seeds are filled with calcium, making them a nutritious addition to any dish. When substituting poppy seeds for sesame seeds, it is important to remember that the flavor will be slightly different. As a result, it is best to use poppy seeds in dishes where the flavor will complement the other ingredients.
For example, poppy seed dressing is a delicious way to add flavor to a salad without overpowering the other flavors. Ultimately, whether you use poppy seeds or sesame seeds is a matter of personal preference. However, both options can add a delicious and nutritious touch to any dish.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are a popular superfood these days and for a good reason. They offer many health benefits and are filled with zinc, antioxidants, and magnesium.
Plus, chia seeds offer similar health benefits. So if you’re looking for a healthy and affordable substitute for sesame seeds, chia seeds are a great option.
Chia seeds are a great substitute for sesame seeds. However, chia seeds are slightly more expensive. So, if you are on a tight budget, then chia seeds might not be for you.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are an excellent substitute for sesame seeds. They have a similar flavor and texture, making them perfect for various dishes. They also offer several health benefits.
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of healthy fats and protein, making them ideal for use after workouts. They also contain high levels of magnesium and zinc, which are essential for maintaining healthy hair.
Additionally, pumpkin seeds are often used in granola bars and other snacks, as they provide a nutritious and filling option. Consequently, substituting pumpkin seeds for sesame seeds can be a great way to add more nutrition to your diet.
Chopped nuts
When it comes to baking and toppings, there are many cases where you can use chopped nuts as a substitute for sesame seeds.
For instance, if you’re making a recipe that calls for sesame seeds, but you don’t have any on hand, simply chop up some nuts of your choice and use them in place of the seeds. This will save you a trip to the store, giving your baked goods a unique flavor.
Additionally, using chopped nuts as a topping can add a crunchy texture and extra flavor to your dish. So next time you’re in a pinch, don’t hesitate to reach for the nuts instead of the sesame seeds.
Sesame oil
If you are looking for a sesame seeds substitute with the same taste, then sesame oil might be perfect.
Sesame oil is a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines, and it is also gaining popularity as a culinary oil in the Western world. Sesame oil has a strong flavor and aroma, making it a great choice for various dishes.
It can be drizzled on salads, stir-fries, and rice dishes or in stews and soups. Sesame oil is also an excellent alternative to sesame seeds.
The oil provides the same flavor and aroma as the seeds but without the hassle of grinding or crushing them. Sesame oil is also less likely to go rancid than sesame seeds, making it a more shelf-stable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chia seeds instead of sesame seeds?
Yes, chia seeds are a great substitute for sesame seeds. They have a similar flavor and texture, making them perfect for various dishes. They also offer several health benefits.
Is flaxseed similar to sesame seeds?
Flaxseeds and sesame seeds are not that similar. But you can use flaxseed as a sesame seed substitute nonetheless. Both seeds offer crunch and flavor that can enhance any dish.
Best sesame seed substitute for tahini?
One of the best sesame seed substitutes for tahini is nuts or nut butter. You can experiment with different nuts to see which flavor you like the most. But usually, any nut would give a similar nutty flavor.
What is the best sesame alternative for hummus?
Sesame seeds offer a unique nutty flavor to hummus. But if you are out of sesame seeds, you can use a few different alternatives to achieve the same result. In our opinion, sunflower seeds work as the best sesame seeds alternative. However, you can also use white or black sesame seeds.
While using any of the above sesame seed substitutes, ensure to use it is the same amount. For example, if the recipe asks for 1/4 cup of sesame seeds, use 1/4 cup of sesame seed substitute.
Can I use sesame oil instead of sesame seeds?
Yes, sesame oil is a great substitute for sesame seeds. It has a similar flavor and aroma, making it perfect for various dishes. The oil provides the same flavor and aroma as the seeds but without the hassle of grinding or crushing them.
However, if you are looking for the infamous sesame seed crunch, sesame oil would not be a great option.
In conclusion
Sesame seeds are a popular and nutritious addition to many dishes. However, several viable options are available if you’re out of sesame seeds or need a substitution. Chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, chopped nuts, and sesame oil offer similar flavors and textures to sesame seeds and can be used in various recipes. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different substitutes to find the perfect one for your needs.