How to Use Sesame Oil Properly

Sesame oil is one of the most flavourful ingredients in Asian cooking. Just a small drizzle can completely transform a dish, adding a rich, nutty aroma that's instantly recognisable.

However, one of the biggest mistakes people make is using sesame oil like ordinary cooking oil. Unlike vegetable or peanut oil, sesame oil is usually added in small amounts to enhance flavour rather than for frying.

In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to use sesame oil properly, when to add it, and the best ways to incorporate it into your everyday cooking.

What Is Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil is made by pressing sesame seeds to extract their natural oil.

There are two common varieties:

• Toasted sesame oil
• Untoasted sesame oil

The sesame oil commonly used in Asian cooking is toasted sesame oil, which has a rich golden-brown colour and a distinctive nutty aroma.

Because of its concentrated flavour, only a small amount is needed to make a big difference.

A few drops of sesame oil can elevate an entire dish. Think of it as a finishing ingredient rather than your primary cooking oil.

What Does Sesame Oil Taste Like?

Sesame oil has a rich, roasted, nutty flavour with subtle earthy notes.

It adds:

• Warm nutty flavour
• Rich aroma
• Depth
• Authentic Asian flavour
• Smooth finish

Unlike neutral oils, sesame oil isn't intended to be flavourless—it becomes part of the overall taste of the dish.

When Should You Add Sesame Oil?

The best time to add sesame oil is towards the end of cooking.

This helps preserve its delicate aroma and flavour.

Ideal times include:

• After stir-frying
• Before serving noodles
• Mixed into dipping sauces
• Added to marinades
• Drizzled over fried rice
• Stirred into soups just before serving

Adding it too early can cause much of its aroma to disappear during cooking.

Can You Fry With Sesame Oil?

Although sesame oil can tolerate moderate heat, it is generally not recommended as your main frying oil.

Instead:

1. Cook your ingredients using a neutral cooking oil such as peanut oil or vegetable oil.
2. Add sesame oil near the end of cooking for maximum flavour.

This method gives you the best balance of cooking performance and authentic taste.

Why You Shouldn't Use Too Much Sesame Oil

Sesame oil has an intense flavour.

Using too much can overpower your dish and mask the other ingredients.

As a guide:

• 1 teaspoon is enough for most noodle dishes.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons work well for stir-fries serving four people.
• A few drops are often all you need for soups or fried rice.

Remember, it's designed to complement the meal—not dominate it.

Best Dishes for Sesame Oil

Sesame oil works beautifully in many Asian-inspired dishes, including:

• Stir-fries
• Fried rice
• Noodle dishes
• Dumplings
• Ramen
• Korean fried chicken
• Beef bowls
• Chicken marinades
• Vegetable stir-fries
• Asian salads
• Rice bowls

10 Easy Ways to Use Sesame Oil

1. Finish a Stir-Fry

Once your stir-fry is cooked, drizzle sesame oil over the ingredients before serving.

2. Upgrade Fried Rice

Mix a teaspoon through freshly cooked fried rice for a rich, authentic flavour.

3. Season Noodles

Combine sesame oil with soy sauce, garlic and chilli oil to create a quick noodle sauce.

4. Add to Marinades

Mix sesame oil with:

• Light soy sauce
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Honey
• Gochujang

Perfect for chicken, beef or pork.

5. Make a Dipping Sauce

Combine sesame oil with:

• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic
• Spring onions
• Sesame seeds

Ideal for dumplings and spring rolls.

6. Drizzle Over Soup

Add a few drops to ramen or noodle soup immediately before serving.

7. Mix Into Salad Dressing

Combine sesame oil with rice vinegar and soy sauce for a delicious Asian-inspired dressing.

8. Toss Through Vegetables

Roasted broccoli, carrots and mushrooms taste even better with a drizzle of sesame oil.

9. Flavour Rice Bowls

Finish poke bowls, bibimbap or chicken rice bowls with sesame oil.

10. Make Spicy Mayo

Mix sesame oil with sushi mayonnaise and a little chilli paste for a creamy dipping sauce.

Foods That Pair Well With Sesame Oil

Sesame oil complements many ingredients, including:

• Chicken
• Beef
• Pork
• Tofu
• Mushrooms
• Broccoli
• Bok choy
• Spinach
• Carrots
• Rice
• Noodles
• Eggs
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Soy sauce
• Chilli oil
• Gochujang

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using It as Your Main Cooking Oil

Sesame oil is primarily a finishing oil, not a frying oil.

Adding Too Much

Its strong flavour means less is usually more.

Adding It Too Early

High heat reduces its aroma and flavour.

Forgetting to Seal the Bottle

Exposure to air can reduce freshness over time.

How Should Sesame Oil Be Stored?

Store sesame oil:

• In a cool, dry place
• Away from direct sunlight
• With the lid tightly closed

Once opened, always follow the storage instructions provided on the product label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook with sesame oil?

Yes, but it's best added towards the end of cooking rather than being used as the primary frying oil.

Is sesame oil healthy?

Sesame oil contains mostly unsaturated fats and is commonly used as part of balanced diets. As with all oils, it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Does sesame oil need to be refrigerated?

Always follow the storage instructions on the product packaging. Many sesame oils can be stored in a cool, dry place before opening, while some manufacturers recommend refrigeration after opening.

Is sesame oil spicy?

No. Sesame oil has a rich, nutty flavour but does not contain chilli.

Can I use sesame oil in salads?

Absolutely. It adds fantastic flavour to Asian-inspired salad dressings.

What is sesame oil used for?

Sesame oil is used in stir-fries, fried rice, noodle dishes, marinades, soups, dipping sauces and salad dressings.

Simple Sesame Oil Stir-Fry Sauce

Try this quick homemade sauce:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Method

1. Mix all ingredients together.
2. Pour over cooked vegetables or meat during the final minute of cooking.
3. Toss well and serve immediately.

Bring Authentic Flavour to Every Meal

Sesame oil is one of the easiest ways to bring authentic Asian-inspired flavour into your kitchen.

Whether you're making noodles, fried rice, stir-fries or dipping sauces, adding just a small amount at the right time can make all the difference.

With Sloppy Chans Sesame Oil, you can enjoy the rich, nutty flavour that completes your favourite homemade Asian dishes—one convenient pack at a time.

Looking for more cooking tips? Explore the Sloppy Chans News blog for ingredient guides, recipes and expert advice to help you cook with confidence.