What are the differences between brown/golden sesame seeds and black ones?
Unhulled sesame seeds can be either light brown (golden) or black. Other than their color, are there other differences are their between these two varieties? Why might you choose one type over the other (again, I only care about reasons that aren't related to color or aesthetics of a dish).
Best Answer
Dark sesame seeds are more common in Indian cooking. I personally think that they have a more intense taste. They are also smaller, for what little difference that makes. I wouldn't rush to use them to make tahini, because the color would be surprising and I suspect that the flavor would be a bit bitter.
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Which is better black or brown sesame seeds?
In addition to containing more nutrients, black sesame seeds have a stronger flavor and more crunch than white sesame seeds that have had their outer hull removed.What color sesame seeds are best?
I found that the black sesame seeds had a stronger, nuttier flavor than the lighter counterparts. You may find the texture is different as well as the black often come with their thin outer hull still attached unlike their lighter counterparts.Which type of sesame is best?
Hulled Sesame Seeds This is one of the most common and healthiest varieties of sesame seeds.Do different colored sesame seeds taste different?
But aside from color, there's also a subtle difference in taste. Black sesame seeds have a slightly nuttier, more bitter flavor compared to their sweeter white equivalent.How to take sesame seeds? Which sesame seeds are good - white or black? How much is enough?
More answers regarding what are the differences between brown/golden sesame seeds and black ones?
Answer 2
Dark ones are perfects for Sushi and other Japanese dishes (I've tried to substitute them with golden ones, but disappointingly the flavor was not as good as with dark ones).
Answer 3
Also make sure you're comparing types of seeds not just their preparation. "Brown" sesame seeds may merely be roasted. They have a nuttier flavor, almost like popcorn.
Answer 4
Black sesame seeds are definitely a different variety than the cream/brown ones, and used in Japanese cooking.
Answer 5
Black sesame seeds do impart a stronger taste than regular sesame seeds, especially when lightly toasted in a dry pan. They are great ground and added to rich beefy soups or broths.
White sesame on the other hand, has a slightly lighter taste. Toasted white sesame seeds go great mixed with tuna mayo and red onion. They also go very well with chicken and some fish dishes.
Overall, white sesame goes well with lighter coloured and flavoured dishes. Black sesame goes well with darker and stronger flavoured dishes. At least that's what I do. Of course, you can try them with whatever dish you like. These are just some personal preferences.
Oh and black sesame oil, for some strange reason, does not impart as strong a taste as white sesame oil. Asians add black sesame oil to noodles to impart a wonderful taste.
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