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Table of Contents

• What is the history of sesame brittle?
• What are the benefits of sesame seeds?
• How to make sesame sweet sesame brittle?
• What are some variations of sesame brittle?
• How to store sesame sweet sesame brittle?

What is the history of sesame brittle?

Sesame brittle, also known as sesame seed candy, has a long history dating back thousands of years. It is believed to have originated in the Middle East, specifically in the region that is now known as Iran. Sesame seeds, the main ingredient in sesame brittle, have been cultivated in this region for over 5,000 years.

The ancient Egyptians were known to have used sesame seeds in their cooking and as a source of oil. They even used sesame seeds as a form of currency. The seeds were highly valued for their nutritional and medicinal properties.

Sesame brittle spread throughout the Middle East and eventually reached other parts of the world through trade routes. It became a popular snack in many cultures, including Greece, Turkey, India, and China.

In Greece, sesame brittle is called pasteli and is often made with the addition of honey. It is a traditional treat enjoyed during various festivals and celebrations.

In Turkey, sesame brittle is known as pestil and is typically made with the addition of grape molasses. It is often enjoyed with a cup of Turkish tea.

In India, sesame brittle is known as til chikki and is made with jaggery, a type of unrefined sugar. It is a popular snack during the festival of Makar Sankranti.

In China, sesame brittle is known as ma hua and is usually made with the addition of maltose syrup. It is a popular street food and is often sold in small shops and stalls.

Today, sesame brittle is enjoyed all over the world. It is a delicious and nutritious snack that can be easily made at home.

What are the benefits of sesame seeds?

Sesame seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition. They are packed with essential nutrients and have numerous health benefits.

One of the main benefits of sesame seeds is their high content of healthy fats. These fats are mainly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are known to have a positive impact on heart health and can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Sesame seeds are also a good source of protein. They contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and it also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

In addition to healthy fats and protein, sesame seeds are rich in fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help prevent constipation. It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Sesame seeds are also a good source of vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. They also contain iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which are all essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Furthermore, sesame seeds are rich in antioxidants. These compounds help to protect the body against oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

Overall, sesame seeds are a nutritious addition to any diet. They are versatile and can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes, including the delicious sesame sweet sesame brittle.

How to make sesame sweet sesame brittle?

Making sesame sweet sesame brittle is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white sesame seeds
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a dry skillet or frying pan, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning. This should take about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Continue cooking the sugar syrup until it reaches the hard crack stage, which is around 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into a bowl of cold water. It should harden immediately and become brittle.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the toasted sesame seeds and vanilla extract (if using) quickly. Be careful as the mixture will bubble and steam.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet or a silicone mat. Use a greased spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly. You can also use your hands, but be careful as the mixture will be hot.
6. Allow the sesame brittle to cool and harden completely. This should take about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
7. Once cooled, break the brittle into small pieces and store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade sesame sweet sesame brittle as a delicious snack or give it as a gift to friends and family!

What are some variations of sesame brittle?

While the classic sesame sweet sesame brittle recipe is delicious on its own, there are also several variations that you can try to add a twist to this traditional treat. Here are a few ideas:

1. Chocolate Sesame Brittle:

Add a chocolatey twist to your sesame brittle by melting some dark or milk chocolate and drizzling it over the cooled brittle. Allow the chocolate to harden before breaking the brittle into pieces. This combination of sweet and nutty flavors is sure to be a hit!

2. Spiced Sesame Brittle:

Add some warmth and complexity to your sesame brittle by incorporating spices such as cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom. Simply mix the spices with the toasted sesame seeds before adding them to the sugar syrup. This will give your brittle a unique and aromatic flavor.

3. Nutty Sesame Brittle:

Enhance the crunchiness and flavor of your sesame brittle by adding some chopped nuts. Almonds, pistachios, or peanuts are all great options. Simply mix the nuts with the toasted sesame seeds before adding them to the sugar syrup. This will create a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

4. Coconut Sesame Brittle:

Add a tropical twist to your sesame brittle by incorporating some shredded coconut. After toasting the sesame seeds, mix them with the coconut before adding them to the sugar syrup. The coconut will add a hint of sweetness and a chewy texture to the brittle.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. The possibilities are endless!

How to store sesame sweet sesame brittle?

Once you have made your delicious sesame sweet sesame brittle, you will want to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and crunchy.

The best way to store sesame brittle is in an airtight container. This will help to prevent moisture from getting in and causing the brittle to become soft or sticky. You can use a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid or a plastic container with a snap-on lid.

It is also a good idea to separate the layers of brittle with parchment paper or wax paper. This will prevent the pieces from sticking together and help to maintain their individual shape and texture.

Store the sesame brittle in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Exposure to heat can cause the brittle to melt or become soft, while exposure to sunlight can cause it to lose its crispness and flavor.

When stored properly, sesame sweet sesame brittle can last for up to two weeks. However, it is best enjoyed within the first few days when it is at its freshest and crunchiest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sesame sweet sesame brittle is a delicious and nutritious treat that has a rich history and is enjoyed by people all over the world. Its origins can be traced back to the Middle East, but it has since become a popular snack in many different cultures.

Sesame seeds, the main ingredient in sesame brittle, are packed with essential nutrients and offer numerous health benefits. They are a good source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals