sesame seeds (तिलको बीउ)
About sesame seeds (तिलको बीउ)
Sesame seeds (locally known as *til* in Nepali) are a common ingredient in Nepalese cuisine and have a long history of cultivation in the country. They are valued for their nutritional properties and unique flavor. In Nepal, sesame seeds are not just a food; they're an integral part of religious rituals, cultural practices, and traditional medicine. You'll find them in everything from sweet snacks to savory dishes. They are often used during festivals and for religious purposes in various communities of Nepal. Because of the climate in Nepal, sesame grows fairly well and has been used by many in the country for a long time. They are grown in various regions from the terai to the hills, demonstrating their adaptability. In Nepalese households, both black and white varieties of sesame seeds are commonly used, the black seeds generally being preferred for oil extraction due to their higher oil content.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in sesame seeds
Seasonality
Sesame seeds in Nepal are typically planted after the monsoon season. The harvest time usually falls around the late autumn or early winter months, specifically from October to December. This is the period when the mature seed pods are collected, dried, and the seeds are extracted. Because of this harvest time, sesame seeds are mostly used in winter and are part of many winter foods and are available fresh around winter time. However, the harvested seeds are then stored and can be available for the rest of the year, though fresh seeds are easier to find near winter.
History
The history of sesame seeds in Nepal dates back centuries, and they have been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. While specific historical records detailing their exact introduction to Nepal are scarce, it's believed that sesame cultivation was introduced through trade routes and cultural exchanges with neighboring regions like India, where sesame has a much older history. The seeds quickly integrated into Nepali food and culture, becoming a staple in both rural and urban households. In the past, and to some extent even today, farmers in Nepal often cultivated sesame in smaller plots or as part of mixed cropping systems. The oil extracted from sesame seeds has been used for cooking, lighting oil lamps, and for traditional medicinal purposes, such as massaging newborns. Sesame sweets, like *til ko laddu* (sesame seed balls), are a common delicacy prepared for festivals such as Maghe Sankranti, a traditional harvest festival, and underscores the importance of this food in Nepali society and culture.