Key facts
| Hindi name | Til |
|---|---|
| Also called | Ellu (Tamil) |
| Flavour | Nutty and toasty. |
| Heat | No heat |
| Sold as | Whole seeds |
| Stays fresh | Whole: 6 months · check your jars |
| Best substitute | Sunflower seeds. |
| Used in | 2 of our blends and 2 of our dishes |
How to use it
Used in chikki, til laddoo for Makar Sankranti, chutneys and some South Indian podis.
- Toast in a dry pan until they start to pop.
Substitute
Sunflower seeds.
Storage
Keep cool and use within six months to a year.
Til laddoo and chikki are traditional sweets for the harvest festival of Makar Sankranti.
Pairs well with
Dishes that use sesame seeds
Blends with sesame seeds
Milagai podi (gunpowder)
South India
A coarse lentil, sesame and chilli powder, nicknamed “gunpowder”.
Frequently asked questions
What is sesame seeds called in Hindi?
Til. Also known as Ellu (Tamil).
What can I use instead of sesame seeds?
Sunflower seeds.
How long does sesame seeds keep?
Keep cool and use within six months to a year.
Tips from travellers
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Questions from readers
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