What is Black Sesame Milk?
Black sesame milk is a plant-based beverage made by blending black sesame seeds with water and then straining the mixture, much like how almond or oat milk is produced. The result is a creamy, opaque milk with a distinct grey or black colour and a rich,
nutty flavour. Often described as having a deeper, more toasted taste than its white sesame counterpart, this drink is a staple in many East Asian cuisines, not just as a beverage but also as an ingredient in desserts and sweet soups. While it might seem new to many in India, its roots in traditional wellness practices are deep, often praised for its nutritional content.
The Celebrity Stamp of Approval
Adah Sharma, known for her unique social media presence and advocacy for a vegan lifestyle, shared a short, quirky video of herself preparing the drink. In her signature playful style, she showed the process of toasting the seeds, blending them with cashews, dates for sweetness, and water, then straining it through a cloth to produce the 'kala doodh' or black milk. Sharma, who has been a long-time vegetarian and later turned vegan, often posts about plant-based recipes and their benefits, framing this particular drink as something that will make you 'beautiful'. Her post quickly drew attention, with many fans expressing interest in the unusual-looking but intriguing health drink.
A Nutritional Powerhouse in a Glass
Beyond the novelty, black sesame seeds are lauded for their impressive nutritional profile. They are a fantastic source of several essential minerals. Just two tablespoons contain a significant amount of your daily needs for copper, magnesium, iron, and zinc. They are particularly celebrated for their high calcium content, which is crucial for bone health. The seeds are also packed with healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, plant-based protein, and dietary fibre. Furthermore, black sesame seeds contain lignans and other antioxidants like sesamin, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. These nutrients contribute to benefits like improved heart health by helping manage cholesterol and blood pressure, better digestion, and healthier skin.
How to Make Black Sesame Milk at Home
Inspired to try it yourself? Making black sesame milk is surprisingly simple. Here’s a basic recipe: 1. Soak the Seeds: Start with half a cup of raw black sesame seeds. It's a good idea to soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. Soaking helps to soften them for a smoother blend and can reduce any bitterness. 2. Rinse and Drain: After soaking, thoroughly rinse the seeds using a fine-mesh sieve. 3. Blend: Add the rinsed seeds to a high-speed blender with 3-4 cups of filtered water. For natural sweetness, you can add one or two pitted dates, a tablespoon of maple syrup, or a bit of jaggery. A pinch of salt can also enhance the flavour. Adah Sharma's version also included a few cashews for extra creaminess. 4. Strain: Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour the liquid through a nut milk bag or a fine cheesecloth into a bowl or jar, squeezing out as much milk as possible. 5. Store: The fresh milk can be enjoyed immediately, either chilled or warmed. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three or four days.
Important Considerations Before You Drink
While black sesame milk offers many potential benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind. Sesame is one of the most common seed allergies. In fact, it is now recognised as a major allergen in many countries. If you have a known allergy to seeds or nuts, you should exercise caution or avoid it altogether. Reactions can range from mild to severe. Also, because sesame seeds are high in healthy fats and calories, moderation is key, especially if you add sweeteners. For individuals on medication for diabetes or high blood pressure, it's worth noting that sesame seeds may naturally help lower blood sugar and blood pressure, so it's wise to consume them mindfully to avoid any interference.
