by Karen Wang, author of Happy Foods - 100 Mood-Boosting Recipes
What is Gomashio?
Gomashio seasoning comes from the combination of the Japanese words “goma” (sesame) and “sio” (salt) and is also known as “sesame salt” or “Eastern salt.“ It not only brings a delightful nutty flavor and texture to any dish but also provides many health benefits. Because of that, it is much better to make your own to ensure its freshness and potency.
Ingredients:
5 tablespoons raw sesame seeds
2 teaspoons sea salt (medium grind)
Equipment:
small sauté pan
wooden spoon
mortar & pestle
glass jar with a lid
1. Place the sesame seeds into a small sauté pan and place over a medium-low flame.
Place the mortar (bowl) nearby.
2. Toast the sesame seeds until you can smell their fragrance and they turn a light-brown color.
Stir the seeds with a wooden spoon to prevent them from burning.
3. As soon as they are ready, turn off the heat and pour the sesame seeds into the mortar (bowl). Let them cool completely.
4. Add in the salt, and using the pestle, grind the ingredients until they are blended and about the texture of fresh ground coarse pepper.
5. Store in the glass jar and use it within one week.
Gomashio benefits:
Sesame salt stimulates digestion and helps us better assimilate the food we eat.
Gomashio provides our body with multiple nutrients, minerals, B vitamins, and iron. It is considered the quintessential remineralizing seasoning.
Sesame Seed Nutrition:
- Sesame seeds are high in methionine and cysteine, two amino acids that legumes don’t provide in large amounts.
- Sesame seeds contain magnesium, calcium, zinc, and manganese.
Soaking, roasting, or sprouting sesame seeds can improve the absorption of these minerals. - Sesame oil is also very beneficial. One traditional way of using it is to do oil pulling, as the oil’s antibacterial properties can reduce plaque and inflammation of gums and improve oral health.
Oil Pulling Recipe:
- 2 Tbsp raw sesame oil
- 2 drops Frankincense Tincture
Note: Black sesame seeds contain more nutrients but are also more robust in flavor and have a mild bitterness
Serving Suggestions:
You can sprinkle Gomashio on just about anything!
Try it on sauteed vegetables, salads, avocado toast, or on a bowl of plain rice.
