The Best Way to Store Sesame Oil

Sesame oil can really add a punch of flavor to your dishes. I use it all the time in stir fry and even in dipping sauces! Sesame seeds and oils also have a rich history of medicinal use and beauty benefits. They are a great source of minerals, including copper, for rheumatoid arthritis relief. Sesame seeds also contain special fibers that regulate cholesterol and protect the liver. Plus, they have a high amount of phytosterols, which help lower cholesterol levels! 

What a magical oil! The downside is that pure sesame oil can be expensive, so you want to store it properly so it doesn’t go rancid. Here is how to store it to get the best out of your oil!

How To Store Sesame Oil

For optimal storage of sesame oil, keep it in a cool and dark location, such as a kitchen cabinet or pantry, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. To prevent air exposure, make sure the lid is tightly sealed. I find this oil doesn’t last that long before its flavor starts to change, which might be why they sell the 100% pure kind in such a little bottle. 

Try not to open and close the bottle unless you need the oil, as this speeds up the process of it going rancid due to air exposure. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate the opened bottle, but it will get thicker and be harder to pour. Avoid mixing new sesame oil with older oil, as the old oil may contaminate the new, causing it to deteriorate faster than usual. 

Can You Freeze Sesame Oil?

If you have excess sesame oil or want to prolong its shelf life, a great option is to freeze it. Freezing can be a lifesaver if you’ve bought a large bottle of sesame oil that won’t be consumed before it spoils. It can also preserve the freshness of multiple opened bottles that can’t be finished in time. Keep in mind that freezing might slightly change the texture, so it’s best to use this method when the flavor of the oil is more important than its texture.

To freeze sesame oil (or any kind of oil) I do it in ice cube trays so that I only need to pop out a couple to use in a recipe rather than defrost a large amount of it only to use a little. Simply pour the oil into your ice cube tray, allow it to freeze overnight, and put the frozen portions in a freezersafe ziplock bag. 

How To Defrost Sesame Oil

To thaw a significant quantity of sesame oil, transfer the container to the refrigerator and let it defrost gradually, preferably overnight. Avoid heating or microwaving, as it may impact the taste and texture of the oil. After thawing, give the container a gentle shake to ensure any separated components are thoroughly mixed.

To thaw one small ice cube portion of oil, remove it from the freezer and leave it in a small bowl or container to defrost at room temperature about an hour before use. 

Remember that freezing might lead to minor alterations in the consistency and texture of the oil, but it will not impact its flavor or nutritional value.

How Long Does Sesame Oil Last?

Pantry: For optimal quality, it is recommended to use a good quality sesame oil within six months.

Fridge: If you have opened a bottle of plain sesame oil, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a year. However, it is advisable to use an opened bottle of toasted sesame oil within six to nine months to maintain its flavor and aroma.

Freezer: While freezing sesame oil is not commonly practiced, if you choose to do so, it can extend the shelf life for six months to a year beyond the “best by” date.

How To Know When Sesame Oil Is Rancid?

When it comes to sesame oil, beware of rancidity! The strong bitterness of rancid oil will ruin the flavor of your dish for sure. Rancidity occurs when the fats in the oil oxidize, causing spoilage. Identifying rancid sesame oil is simple – rely on your sense of smell. If it has an unpleasant odor, resembling stale nuts or cardboard, it has spoiled.

Trust your senses and say goodbye if it doesn’t pass the smell test. Also, watch out for changes in appearance like cloudiness, sediment, or a discolored appearance.

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