Sesame Seeds Benefit the Heart & Lower Cholesterol

Sesame seeds are truly one of the most ancient foods on earth. In fact, sesame plants are the oldest known plant species to be grown primarily for their seeds (pods) and oils rather than for their leaves, fruit or vegetables.

Highly valued in eastern, Mediterranean and African cultures, sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) have been used for thousands of years to flavor foods, provide essential fats and enhance skin health. Sesame has one of the highest oil contents of any seed and a rich, nutty flavor, which is why sesame oil, tahini and the seeds themselves are common ingredients in cuisines across the world.

1 tablespoon of whole sesame seed has:

  • 52 calories
  • 4 grams fat
  • 1 gram carbs
  • 2 grams of protein
  • 4 milligrams copper (18 percent DV)
  • 2 milligrams manganese (11 percent DV)
  • 87 milligrams calcium (9 percent DV)
  • 31 milligrams magnesium (8 percent DV)
  • 3 milligrams iron (7 percent DV)
  • 57 milligrams phosphorus (6 percent DV)
  • 7 milligrams zinc (5 percent DV)
  • 1 milligrams thiamine (5 percent DV)
INGREDIENTS: makes for 1 lb meat
  • 1/4 cup paprika
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
  • salt is only added to meats.
INSTRUCTIONS: lasts up to 3 months in a sealed container.
  1. In a small airtight container, combine paprika, cumin, oregano, sesame seeds, and pepper. Cover and shake well to combine.

  2. To use: turn on BBQ. Rub 2 tablespoons spice mix all over a 1 lb short rib strips. Season with coarse salt, place on BBQ,cook for 2 minutes, flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes (depends thickness).