19 Chinese Sesame Seed Paste Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
Chinese sesame seed paste, also known as "zhima jiang", is a staple ingredient in Chinese cuisine. This creamy and nutty paste is made from toasted sesame seeds and is used in various dishes, such as sauces, dressings, and desserts. In this article, we will delve into the history and cultural significance of this beloved ingredient and provide a simple, yet authentic, recipe for making your own Chinese sesame seed paste at home. So let's grab our aprons and get ready to explore the world of zhima jiang!
Main Ingredients: Beets, Sesame Seed Paste, Lemon Juice, Garlic, Ground
If you're looking to add a pop of color and flavor to your beer can chicken, this beet hummus recipe is the way to go. Made with roasted beets, tahini, and garlic, this dip is a perfect accompaniment to your juicy chicken.
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Chinese Barbecued Pork (Char Siu)
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Soy Sauce, Hoisin Sauce, Rice Wine
For a unique twist on beer can chicken, try marinating your bird in a Chinese barbecued pork marinade. The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder creates a deliciously flavorful chicken that will have your taste buds dancing.
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Tahini Sauce
Main Ingredients: Sesame Seed Paste, Lukewarm Water, Garlic, Fresh Lemon
No beer can chicken is complete without a delicious sauce to drizzle over the top. This tahini sauce recipe is the perfect balance of tangy and creamy, making it the perfect accompaniment to your chicken.
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Classic Hummus with Toasted Pine Nuts
Main Ingredients: Chick Peas, Lemon, Garlic, Salt, Sesame Seed Paste
For a classic take on hummus, try this recipe that adds a touch of crunch with toasted pine nuts. Spread it on some pita bread or use it as a dip for your beer can chicken for a flavor explosion.
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5-minute Spicy Hummus
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Garlic, Olive Oil, Fresh Lemon Juice, Sesame
If you're a fan of spice, this 5-minute spicy hummus is the perfect sauce for your beer can chicken. Made with chickpeas, garlic, and hot sauce, it's quick and easy to make and adds a kick to your chicken.
Balance out the richness of beer can chicken with this healthy and flavorful mean green detox salad. Made with kale, avocado, and quinoa, it's the perfect side dish for any summer meal.
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Creamy Asparagus Soup
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chopped Onion, Cubed Potatoes, Asparagus
If you're looking for a lighter way to enjoy your beer can chicken, try pairing it with this creamy and asparagus soup. Made with coconut milk and nutritional yeast, it's a dairy-free option that doesn't skimp on flavor.
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Falafel Salad
Main Ingredients: Sesame Seed Paste, Water, Lemon Juice, Garlic, Cumin
For a Middle Eastern twist on beer can chicken, serve it alongside this flavorful falafel salad. Made with chickpeas, cucumbers, and tahini dressing, it's a refreshing and unique side dish.
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Roasted Beets with Tahini and Pine Nuts
Main Ingredients: Beets, Cooking Oil, Sesame Seed Paste, Lukewarm Water
Take your beets to the next level with this recipe that combines roasted beets with tahini, lemon juice, and pine nuts. It's a flavorful and colorful addition to any summer meal.
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Grilled Chicken Shawarma with Tahini Sauce
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Olive Oil, Lemon
If you're craving some Mediterranean flavors, try this grilled chicken shawarma recipe. Marinated in a blend of spices and served with a creamy tahini sauce, it's a delicious way to switch up your beer can chicken game.
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Easy Tahini Sauce Dip (Whole30, Paleo)
Main Ingredients: Sesame Seed Paste, Vegetable Stock, Freshly Squeezed
If you're following a Whole30 or paleo diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of beer can chicken. This easy tahini sauce dip is made with coconut milk and nutritional yeast, making it compliant with both diets.
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Rainbow Thai Basil Noodle Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients: Sesame Seed Paste, Honey, Lime, Fish Sauce, Garlic
Add some color and flavor to your beer can chicken with this rainbow Thai basil noodle salad. Made with rice noodles and a tangy sesame vinaigrette, it's a refreshing and tasty side dish.
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Nut Free Peanut Butter Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sesame Seed Paste, Sweetener, Egg, Vanilla
If you're looking for a sweet treat to pair with your beer can chicken, try these nut-free peanut butter cookies. Made with sunflower seed butter, they're a delicious and allergy-friendly option.
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Roasted Beet Hummus (VIDEO).
Main Ingredients: Yellow Beets, Garlic, Chickpeas, Sesame Seed Paste
Take your beet hummus to the next level with this roasted beet hummus recipe. It's creamy, flavorful, and adds a pop of color to your chicken dish. Plus, there's a video tutorial to make it even easier!
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Artichoke and Cannellini Beans Hummus
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Cannellini Beans, Artichoke Hearts
If you're looking to switch up your hummus game, try this artichoke and cannellini beans hummus. It's a creamy and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
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Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread
Main Ingredients: Mashed Banana, Large Eggs, Brown Sugar, Sesame Seed
For a unique and delicious dessert to go with your beer can chicken, try this gingerbread-tahini banana bread. The combination of tahini and molasses adds a rich and flavorful twist to classic banana bread.
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Pita Falafel Sandwich with Tahini Sauce
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Red Onion, Fresh Parsley Leaves, Cilantro
For a filling and flavorful meal, try making these pita falafel sandwiches with your beer can chicken. The combination of falafel, hummus, and tahini sauce creates a delicious and satisfying dish.
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Roasted Eggplant and Lentil Bowls with Cardamom Yogurt
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Broth, Black Lentils, Globe Eggplant, Red
For a hearty and flavorful meal, try these roasted eggplant and lentil bowls with your beer can chicken. The addition of cardamom yogurt adds a unique and delicious twist to this dish.
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Sweet Potato Grain Bowls with Turmeric Honey Mustard
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cumin, Garlic
For a nutritious and tasty side dish, try making these sweet potato grain bowls with your beer can chicken. Made with quinoa, sweet potatoes, and a flavorful turmeric honey mustard, it's a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
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Roasted Cauliflower Pitas
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Cauliflower, Baby Red Potatoes, Olive Oil
For a vegetarian option to pair with your beer can chicken, try making these roasted cauliflower pitas. The combination of cauliflower, spices, and tahini sauce creates a delicious and filling meal.
The History and Cultural Significance of Chinese Sesame Seed Paste
The Origins of Sesame Seed Paste in China
The use of sesame seeds in Chinese cuisine can be traced back to ancient times. In fact, sesame seeds were considered a sacred crop in China and were often used as offerings to the gods. The earliest record of sesame seed paste being used in Chinese cooking dates back to the 3rd century BCE, during the Han Dynasty. It was used as a condiment, similar to how we use ketchup or mustard today.
The Symbolism of Sesame Seed Paste in Chinese Culture
In Chinese culture, sesame seed paste is not just a delicious ingredient, but it also holds symbolic meaning. The Chinese word for sesame seed, "xi", sounds similar to the word for "to have" or "to be". As a result, sesame seeds and sesame seed paste are often associated with prosperity and abundance. It is also believed that consuming sesame seed paste can bring good luck and fortune.
The Recipe for Homemade Chinese Sesame Seed Paste
Now that we have learned about the cultural significance of sesame seed paste in Chinese cuisine, let's move on to the recipe. Making your own homemade zhima jiang is surprisingly easy and requires only a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a pan, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat until they turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
2. Let the sesame seeds cool down and then transfer them to a food processor or blender.
3. Blend the sesame seeds until they turn into a fine powder.
4. Gradually add in the vegetable oil and continue blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
5. If desired, add in honey or sugar for a touch of sweetness.
6. Finally, add in the salt and blend for a few more seconds.
7. Your homemade Chinese sesame seed paste is ready to be used in your favorite dishes!
In Conclusion
Sesame seed paste is not just a simple ingredient in Chinese cuisine, but it holds a rich history and cultural significance. Making your own homemade zhima jiang is a great way to experience the authentic flavors of Chinese cooking and add a touch of prosperity and good luck to your dishes. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself how versatile and delicious sesame seed paste can be?
