Sesame Seeds, Hulled or Black
Sesame seeds sell raw, toasted, hulled and black. Freshness matters most.
Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.
Where to buy
- Search AmazonLive search · amazon.com
- Search WalmartLive search · walmart.com
- Search TargetLive search · target.com
- Google ShoppingLive search · google.com
Supermarkets keep small jars in the spice aisle. Asian, Indian and Middle Eastern grocers sell cheaper large bags.
Professional insight
Bakers and spice buyers taste sesame before buying in bulk. Rancid oil shows up as a bitter, paint like smell.
- Buy raw and toast small batches yourself.
- High turnover shops sell fresher bulk seeds.
- Mechanically hulled seeds look slightly off white, not bright.
- Black sesame tastes stronger; use less in desserts.
Check the label
0 of 6 checked
Types
| Type | Look | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Hulled white | Pale and smooth | Buns, tahini, coatings |
| Unhulled natural | Tan with a light husk | Crunchy toppings, more calcium |
| Black | Matte black, often unhulled | Asian desserts, garnish |
| Toasted | Golden brown | Ready to sprinkle |
How to use it
- 1Heat a dry pan over medium heat.
- 2Add one thin layer of seeds.
- 3Stir often until golden and fragrant.
- 4Tip onto a cold plate to stop cooking.
Seeds burn within seconds once they start to pop. Stay at the stove the whole time.
Storage
- Keep sesame in an airtight jar.
- Store in a cool, dark cupboard for short use.
- Use the fridge or freezer for bulk bags.
- Sniff before using; discard if bitter or stale.
Ways to save
Sesame seed cost per 100 g
CalculatorCompare a spice jar against a bulk bag.
$
g
Cost per 100 g
Common questions
- Are white and black sesame the same plant?
- Yes. They are different varieties of Sesamum indicum.
- Can I make tahini from these seeds?
- Yes. Hulled white seeds give the smoothest, mildest tahini.
- Why do my seeds taste bitter?
- They may be unhulled, over toasted or going rancid.