Black Sesame Seed Paste Recipe
In Chinese Medicine, the Winter season is associated with the Kidney and Bladder organs as well as the water element. It is the time of year when rest, rejuvenation, and caring to our yin and adrenal glands can be highly beneficial for our body and mind. It is the time to “fill our cup” so that when the warmer seasons of activity come about we have the energy to endure them without tapping into our reserves. One of the best ways, besides rest, to care for our Kidney organ is through food.
This recipe is extremely simple, sweet and nutty in flavor, and has as many uses as it does nutrients.
The Properties of Black Sesame Seeds
Black Sesame Seeds, also known as Hei Zhi Ma in Chinese Pinyin, are neutral in nature, sweet in flavor and very tonifying to the body fluids & blood. For this, they act as a general tonic for all and they are considered to be beneficial for longevity and vitality. They also help to strengthen the liver and the kidneys specifically so they are great to eat during winter.
A few of the things they can be beneficial for:
constipation
ringing in ears
weak knees
stiff joints
headaches
blurred vision
great for nourishing the body after
menstruation and postpartumpremature greying hair
Recipe:
Makes 6-8 Tbsp of Paste
1 cup black sesame seeds
3 tbsp of honey (we used salted honey)
1/2 tbsp of sesame oil
pinch of salt (if not using salted honey)
Directions:
Add everything to a food processor or blender. This will take between 5-15 minutes depending on the equipment you use and consistency you prefer. Scrap down sides of container periodically and allow the paste to get thick and smooth.
How to Use Black Sesame Paste:
Black sesame paste is delicious, nutty, and a bit sweet. It is tasty on anything you would put nut butter on.
Here are some ideas below.
Spread on toast
Put a spoonful into your oatmeal
Put a spoonful into congee
Use in desserts like the tart we made here
Put it on crackers.
References
Healing with Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford
Ancient Wisdom, Modern Kitchen by Yuan Wang
Tips for the Winter Season
Winter is the time of the year where we must slow down and live in accordance with the energy of the season. Learn more about the Chinese Medicine theory behind the winter season, how it relates to your life, and some tips to implement so you can feel your best.