Sesame seeds are admired all around the world for their slightly sweet, nutty flavor and aroma that is enhanced by toasting. In the Middle East, sesame seeds are ground into a paste called tahini and used in the savory dish, hummus and in sweet treats like halvah. In Asian cuisine, they are used in sushi rolls, stir-fries and salads, to name a few. And throughout Europe and America, sesame seeds are added to breads and other baked goods for a rustic, artisan touch and flavor. Sesame seeds are also highly valued for their high content of oil which contains essential fatty acids and is revered in some cultures for its healing properties. "Open sesame"the famous phrase from the Arabian Nightsreflects the distinguishing feature of the sesame seed pod, which bursts open when it reaches maturity.