Sesame and Sunflower Gomasio

Gomasio is a Japanese term that translates to 'Sesame Salt.' This low-sodium seasoning offers a slightly nutty, salty, and umami-rich flavor. It is popular in many Asian cuisines as a healthy alternative to salt, and some variations even include dried seaweed. Gomasio is gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for seasoning salads, appetizers, and main dishes.

The base recipe for gomasio is simple: toast the seeds until they are lightly browned, grind them into a fine powder, and mix with sea salt or Himalayan rock salt. My version deviates slightly from tradition by offering two methods—one using sesame seeds and the other using sunflower seeds.

For a quick and delicious salad dressing, combine the juice of a lemon, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon ginger juice. Season this mixture with gomasio and drizzle over salads for a nutty, tangy, and mildly salty flavor. While I prefer using a mortar and pestle to prepare gomasio, you can also use a blender. For added texture, coarsely grind some seeds and top the dish with toasted whole sesame or sunflower seeds.