Sesame Butter Paste: A Nutrient-Packed Spread for Every Meal
Sesame butter paste, also known as tahini, is a rich and creamy spread made from ground sesame seeds. It’s a staple in many Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines, celebrated for its nutty flavor and versatile uses. Whether used in hummus, dressings, or drizzled over vegetables and grains, sesame butter paste is not only a flavor enhancer but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Below is an in-depth look at the nutritional profile of sesame butter paste, ensuring that you’re informed about the benefits this healthy ingredient brings to your meals.
Nutritional Information (Per 100g of Sesame Butter Paste)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 586 kcal |
| Protein | 18.08 g |
| Total Fat | 50.87 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.124 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24.05 g |
| Fiber | 5.5 g |
| Sugar | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 960 mg |
| Iron | 19.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 362 mg |
| Phosphorus | 659 mg |
| Potassium | 582 mg |
| Sodium | 12 mg |
| Zinc | 7.29 mg |
| Copper | 4.214 mcg |
| Manganese | 2.54 mg |
| Selenium | 35.5 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.24 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.2 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.7 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.816 mg |
| Folate | 100 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 3.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information:
- Sesame: This ingredient is a common allergen and should be avoided by individuals with sesame allergies.
- No Dairy or Gluten: Sesame butter paste is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those following vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets.
Dietary Preferences:
Sesame butter paste aligns with a variety of dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to many recipes:
- Vegan: This product is plant-based and free of animal-derived ingredients.
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarian diets.
- Gluten-Free: Safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Dairy-Free: No milk or dairy products are involved, making it a perfect ingredient for dairy-free diets.
- High in Healthy Fats: A great source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
Health Benefits and Usage Tips:
Sesame butter paste is not only delicious but also packs a punch in terms of nutritional benefits. Here are some of its highlights:
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The high fat content, particularly the healthy fats, make sesame butter paste an excellent source of energy. These fats support cell function and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Good Source of Protein: With over 18 grams of protein per 100 grams, sesame butter paste provides a plant-based protein source that can help with muscle repair and growth.
- Packed with Minerals: The sesame seeds in this paste provide a rich source of minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc—vital for bone health, energy production, and immune function.
- High in Antioxidants: Sesame seeds contain lignans like sesamin and sesamolin, which have antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress in the body.
- Supports Heart Health: The combination of healthy fats and the high magnesium content makes sesame butter paste heart-friendly, supporting blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular function.
How to Use Sesame Butter Paste:
- Spread it on Toast or Crackers: Use sesame butter paste as a delicious spread for your morning toast or crackers, paired with a drizzle of honey or jam for a balanced snack.
- Blend into Smoothies: Add a spoonful of sesame butter paste to your smoothies for a creamy texture and a boost of protein and healthy fats.
- In Hummus or Dips: A key ingredient in hummus and other Middle Eastern dips, sesame butter paste adds richness and flavor. You can also blend it into dressings or sauces for an extra depth of flavor.
- As a Sauce or Drizzle: Use sesame butter paste to make savory dressings or drizzles to enhance salads, grilled vegetables, or rice bowls.
Conclusion:
Sesame butter paste is a nutrient-dense ingredient that offers a wealth of health benefits while elevating the flavors of your dishes. Whether used as a spread, a base for dips, or as an addition to smoothies, it provides a plant-based source of protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. It is an ideal choice for those on vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets and serves as a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet recipes.
