The 10 Best Sesame Oils

Editor's Notes

November 04, 2020:

Equally popular in both Asian cuisine and Ayurvedic medicine, sesame oil is known for its rich, nutty flavour and aroma in dishes like stir-fries, and for its moisturizing capabilities for use in massage and skincare.

The items on the list covered the various gastronomic uses fairly comprehensively, from cold-pressed options that will create intriguing dressings but won’t break the bank such as the Kevala Organic, to versatile choices that don’t compromise on quality such as the Premium Ottogi from South Korea, and the Kadoya Brand Hot, and the La Tourangelle Artisan, which are both from Japan.

As the list didn't previously delve into the use of sesame oil in healthcare treatments, we used the spaces created by the temporarily unavailable Hain Pure Foods and Ziyad Extra Virgin to introduce the Banyan Botanicals and the Life-Flo Pure, both of which are recommended for Ayurvedic treatments such as massage, aromatherapy, and oil pulling, and for use after bathing to nourish hair and skin.

We also removed the 365 Everyday Value Unrefined, for even though it came in at a budget-friendly price, there were complaints that perhaps this low price was down to its having a low flavor content. Instead, we added the Spectrum 16oz, as it provided another versatile option for use on low heats and for cold applications like dressings. What's more, it is also kosher, uses no GMOs, and is USDA-certified organic.

October 25, 2019:

The main reasons cooking enthusiasts love sesame oil are its flavor and its high smoke point of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The high smoke point means you can cook stir-fries and other stove-top dishes at super-hot temperatures without burning the oil and ruining dinner. Flavor-wise, it's a classic ingredient in many Asian cuisines that can't be substituted with other oils without changing the character of a dish. So, don't reach for your olive or avocado oil the next time you want to cook noodles; opt for a flavorful, authentic sesame oil instead. The ingredient may seem negligible, but your tastebuds will surely tell the difference.

In terms of updates, Wilderness Family Naturals has been removed after reviewing complaints regarding consistency from one bottle to the next. In its place, we've added 365 Everyday Value Unrefined, which is an unflavored option suitable for home kitchens. Kevala Organic now holds the top spot in the list thanks to its high quality and appealing toasted sesame seed flavor.