Sesame seeds come in three main varieties: black, tan (or brown) and white. White sesame seeds are simply brown seeds that have had their outer bran layer removed to provide a more delicate flavor. Brown or tan sesame seeds have a stronger nutty flavor. Black sesame seeds have an even stronger, though still nutty, flavor and can sometimes be bitter. You can toast any kind of sesame seeds, but black sesame seeds are the hardest to toast properly; their dark color makes it more difficult to determine when they are done. You can use black sesame seeds in the same way as other sesame seeds or to add visual interest to a dish. Toasting the seeds intensifies the flavor.
Instructions
1. Heat a dry frying pan with no oil or liquid on the stove over medium heat.
2. Place the black sesame seeds in the hot frying pan and place the lid on the pan. Some of the sesame seeds will pop during the toasting process and the lid will keep them in the pan. After one to two minutes, shake the pan thoroughly to agitate the seeds inside.
3. Return the pan to the heat for another 30 to 60 seconds, then shake it again. Open the lid and examine the sesame seeds. If you can smell a nutty flavor coming from the pan, your black sesame seeds are thoroughly toasted and ready to use. If not, cover the pan again and return it to the heat for another 30 to 60 seconds, then shake and check the sesame seeds again. Repeat this process until the seeds are toasted.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately pour the sesame seeds into a bowl. The seeds will continue cooking if you leave them in the pan even after you have removed it from the heat and may burn if you do not pour them out immediately.
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