The Japanese anti-inflammatory superfood that cleanses the liver
Gomasio is a mixture of salt and roasted or ground sesame seeds that reduces the amount of salt in dishes.
In Japanese “goma” means sesame seed and “shio” means salt. Thus, the definition of gomasio, also spelled gomashio, would be “sesame seed salt” a mixture of salt and sesame seeds, which can be either toasted or ground, that can be used in different culinary recipes.
It is rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, has heart-healthy properties, combats depression and is anti-inflammatory, in addition to being rich in vitamin D, vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals; along with containing abundant calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and zinc.
Health benefits
- It has heart-healthy properties, fights depression and is anti-inflammatory
- Protects bones and teeth
- Improves nerve and muscle function
- Increases performance during physical exercise
- It has antidepressant properties
- Helps in the production of hemoglobin
- Boosting the immune system
- Promotes the proper functioning of the liver and kidneys by increasing their capacity to eliminate waste substances
Gomasio is added to different dishes as any other condiment, something that in Japan they have been doing for centuries with sesame seeds as a common ingredient, either the seeds alone or mixed with salt creating this super food .
If you are going to prepare it at home, the most common ratio is 16 parts seeds to one part salt, although it can also be 20 parts seeds for a lighter gomasio or for a more concentrated one use 12 parts sesame seeds . Toast the sesame seeds in a pan for a few minutes until golden brown and then let them cool. Along with the salt you grind the mixture.