How to Choose Sesame Oil: A Buyer’s Guide

If you want to elevate your Asian dishes, sesame oil is an indispensable ingredient. But when you look online or in-store, the selection can be overwhelming. Pure or blended? Toasted or black? And which bottle is right for your favourite stir-fry, and which is best for a sophisticated dressing?

This guide is designed to help you make an informed choice. We'll explain the differences and provide specific recommendations based on product specifications, so you'll know exactly which sesame oil to buy for your kitchen.

What to Look for When Buying Sesame Oil

Before making a choice, it's helpful to consider three key factors. These will determine the flavour, use, and suitability for your dishes.

1. Pure Sesame Oil or a Blended Variety?

The choice between pure and blended depends entirely on its intended use.

• Pure sesame oil: Made from 100% sesame seeds. This oil has a very powerful and nutty aroma. Due to its lower smoke point, pure sesame oil is less suitable for high-heat cooking. It is primarily used as a finishing oil: just a few drops at the end of preparation are enough to impart that authentic Asian sesame oil flavour to soups, marinades, or dressings.
• Blended sesame oil: This is a blend of sesame oil with a neutral vegetable oil, such as soy or rapeseed oil. The advantage is a higher smoke point, making this variety better suited as sesame oil for stir-frying. The flavour is milder, yet still distinct.

2. Toasted, Cold-Pressed, or Black?

The colour of the oil says a lot about its flavour.

• Toasted sesame oil: This is the most common variety in Asian cuisine. The sesame seeds are toasted before pressing, which gives the oil its dark colour and deep, nutty flavour.
• Black sesame oil: This is pressed from black sesame seeds and has an even more intense, rich, and slightly earthy flavour than the regular toasted variety. Black sesame oil is often used in specific Chinese and Korean dishes to add a unique flavour accent.

3. The Right Packaging for Your Kitchen

Sesame oil can lose its potent aroma over time, especially after opening. If you only use it occasionally as a finishing touch, choose a smaller bottle to ensure freshness. Are you an avid home cook, a small restaurant owner, or a caterer? Then a bulk size of sesame oil can be a smart, economical choice.

Recommended Sesame Oils to Consider

Based on the criteria above, we have selected three different types of sesame oil, each with its own unique properties and applications.

Lee Kum Kee Blended Sesame Oil 1.75L

Why it stands out: This is a versatile and economical choice. The blend of sesame oil and vegetable oil creates a product that has a rich aroma while remaining stable at higher temperatures, making it ideal for various cooking styles.

Pros:

• Versatile: Suitable for cold dishes, stir-frying, stewing, and soups.
• Economical: The 1.75-litre bulk size is ideal for frequent use.
• Balanced: Offers a good balance between sesame aroma and a higher smoke point.

Who is it for?: For the home cook who regularly prepares Asian cuisine or for small restaurants looking for a reliable all-rounder. If you stir-fry often, this is an excellent option.

Pearl River Bridge 100% Pure Sesame Oil 150ml

Why it stands out: This oil is 100% pure sesame oil, cold-pressed from toasted white sesame seeds. It is intended purely as a flavouring agent to add an authentic, nutty aroma and taste to dishes.

Pros:

• Intense aroma: Made from 100% toasted sesame oil for a rich flavour.
• Pure product: Contains no other oils or additives.
• Convenient size: The 150 ml bottle ensures the oil stays fresh with moderate use.

Who is it for?: For the purist and the foodie looking for a powerful, authentic flavouring. Perfect for adding a few drops at the last minute to soups, noodles, marinades, and dipping sauces.

Cuizipai Black Sesame Oil 218ml

Why it stands out: This black sesame oil is a speciality product, made from 100% pure black sesame seeds. According to the Cuizi brand, the oil is pressed using traditional stone-milling techniques, resulting in a deep and authentic flavour.

Pros:

• Unique flavour: Offers a deep, rich, and earthy taste that differs from regular sesame oil.
• Traditional: Made from 100% black sesame seeds.
• Specific use: Ideal for cold dishes, soup garnishes, and dipping sauces where a distinctive flavour accent is desired.

Who is it for?: For the adventurous cook who wants to experiment with the complex flavours of Chinese and Korean cuisine. An excellent choice for broadening your culinary horizons.

Haven't Found What You're Looking For?

The world of edible oils is vast and diverse. Besides sesame oil, are you also looking for other varieties like peanut oil, rapeseed oil, or a specific oil for deep-frying? Then check out our full range of seed oils for more options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Oil

What is the difference between light and dark sesame oil?

Dark sesame oil, also known as toasted sesame oil, is made from roasted seeds. This gives the oil its characteristic nutty and robust flavour, making it ideal as a finishing oil. Light sesame oil is pressed from unroasted seeds, is milder in flavour, and has a higher smoke point, making it more suitable for cooking. Most Asian sesame oil mentioned in recipes refers to the dark, toasted variety.

Can I use sesame oil for stir-frying?

That depends on the type. Pure sesame oil has a relatively low smoke point and can burn quickly, which creates a bitter taste. It's better to add it at the end of the cooking process. A blended sesame oil, like the one from Lee Kum Kee, is specially formulated with oils that have a higher smoke point, making it a better choice as a sesame oil for stir-frying.

What is the best way to store sesame oil?

Store sesame oil in a cool, dark place, like a kitchen cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. After opening, it's important to seal the bottle tightly to preserve its flavour and freshness. Some manufacturers recommend refrigerating the oil after opening; always check the label on the packaging for specific instructions.