Ajonjoli (Sesame Seeds): Nutrition, Benefits, Uses and Side Effects
The tiny, flat sesame seeds that top breads, bagels, and sweets worldwide are called ajonjoli in Spanish. They're small but nutritious. Here’s what’s inside them, how they may help your health, how to use them, and who should be careful. What Is Ajonjoli? Ajonjoli comes from the sesame plant ( Sesamum indicum ), one of the oldest oil crops people have grown. The seeds come in white, black, brown and golden varieties. White seeds taste mild and nutty, while black seeds have a stronger, slightly bitter flavor. Toasting any of them brings out a richer aroma. Nutrition at a Glance One tablespoon (about 9 grams) of dried sesame seeds gives you roughly: Calories: about 50 Protein: around 1.5 grams Healthy fats: about 4.5 grams Fiber: about 1 gram Minerals: calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper and manganese These values vary a little by variety and by whether the seeds are hulled. Unhulled seeds keep more fiber and calcium. Sesame also contains plant compounds called l...