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Boost your health with a wholesome sesame seed treat
JOBURG - IF YOU have a hankering for a freshly baked treat but you're tired of traditional Christmas cake and mince pies, and may be in the mood for something a little healthier, then perhaps you might want to try your hand at a sesame seed bar.
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According to Pouyoukas Foods, sesame seeds may be tiny but they have huge health benefits and can be enjoyed by sprinkling them into the batter of cookies, muffins and bread or as a topping on salads and stir-fries, you will be happy to know that you are doing your health a big favour.
Pouyoukas said sesame seeds can boost one’s health in the following three ways:
- They promote healthy skin. Sesame seeds are full of zinc, an essential mineral for producing collagen and giving skin more elasticity. Zinc also helps repair damaged tissues in the body
- They are a source of protein. Sesame seeds have five grams of protein per two tablespoons, giving them a perfect place in a high-protein vegetarian diet
- They boost digestive health. Sesame seeds are rich in fibre, which is known to pave the way for a healthy digestive system and a healthy colon
Pouyoukas shared a recipe for a sweet sesame seed bar:
Ingredients:
- Two cups Pouyoukas sesame seeds
- Half a cup honey
- Half a cup packed dark-brown sugar
- Half a teaspoon cinnamon
- Non-stick cooking spray
Method:
- Coat a square baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside
- Bring the honey, sugar and cinnamon to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly for two minutes
- Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the Pouyoukas sesame seeds until well mixed
- Quickly turn out the hot mixture onto the prepared baking dish and use a metal spatula that has been dipped into cold water to press the mixture into a very smooth and even layer
- Cool for 15 minutes or until the mixture is solid but still lukewarm
- Run a spatula around the edges to loosen it
- Then turn out the whole slab onto a wooden board or other cutting surface
- Use a sharp knife to cut the large square of warm mixture into squares or rectangles.