Buying Sesame Oil: Our 2026 Recommendations

The selection of sesame oil on the market can be overwhelming. Light or dark oil, toasted or cold-pressed, organic or a spicy variety—the differences are significant and can dramatically impact the outcome of your dishes. This article serves as a guide. It explains the key characteristics of different types of sesame oil and presents a selection of products to make it easier for you to decide when you want to buy sesame oil.

What to Look for When Buying Sesame Oil

To find the right product for your kitchen, some basic knowledge about the different types of sesame oil is helpful.

Toasted vs. Cold-Pressed Sesame Oil: A Matter of Taste and Use

The colour of the oil provides the first clue about its production method and flavour profile.

• Cold-Pressed Sesame Oil: Also known as virgin or light sesame oil, this oil is extracted from raw, untoasted sesame seeds. The gentle cold-pressing process preserves valuable nutrients and the mild, nutty flavour of the seeds. It is excellent for salad dressings, marinades, or for finishing cold dishes. Due to its low smoke point, it should not be used for high-temperature frying.
• Toasted Sesame Oil: This oil has a dark, amber-like colour and an intense, robust roasted aroma. It is pressed from previously toasted sesame seeds. In Asian cuisine, toasted sesame oil is less of a cooking oil and more of a finishing oil, added to dishes just before serving to impart a deep, aromatic note. It is a key ingredient for many types of sesame oil for Asian dishes.

Quality and Origin: Organic Certification and Traditional Production

For consumers who value sustainable agriculture, organic sesame oil is an excellent choice. Products with a recognised organic seal, such as the EU organic logo, guarantee that the sesame seeds were grown without the use of synthetic chemical pesticides and fertilisers.

Furthermore, origin plays a role. Brands like Kadoya sesame oil represent the long tradition of producing Japanese sesame oil and are known for their consistent quality and authentic taste.

Our Top Sesame Oil Picks for 2026

Here is a curated selection of three different sesame oils, each intended for specific applications in the kitchen.

Alnatura Organic Sesame Oil 250ml

Why it stands out: This virgin, cold-pressed sesame oil in organic quality is distinguished by its rich, nutty, and mild flavour. It is obtained from the first cold pressing, which helps preserve its aroma and quality.

Pros:

• From certified organic farming (DE-?KO-006).
• Cold-pressed and virgin, ideal for cold dishes.
• Versatile for vegetable, rice, and lentil dishes, as well as for salad dressings.
• Vegan and made in Germany.

Who it's for: For health-conscious home cooks looking for a high-quality organic sesame oil with a mild flavour for salads, dips, and finishing cooked meals. It is a pure flavouring and finishing oil and is not intended for heating.

Kadoya Hot Sesame Oil 163 ml

Why it stands out: This traditional hot sesame oil, known as "La-Yu" (辣油) in Japan, combines the aroma of toasted sesame oil with the heat of chilli extract. It is produced by the renowned manufacturer Kadoya.

Pros:

• Made from 100% pure Kadoya sesame oil and chilli extract.
• Adds a pleasant spiciness and a complex, nutty depth to dishes.
• Very potent—a few drops are enough for seasoning.
• Ideal for drizzling over ramen, gyoza, stir-fries, and salads.

Who it's for: For lovers of Japanese and Asian cuisine who want to give their dishes an authentic, spicy kick. It is the perfect oil to add a finishing touch to dishes like soups or dumplings.

Kadoya Pure Sesame Oil 163 ml

Why it stands out: This is a 100% pure, toasted sesame oil from Kadoya, Japan's leading manufacturer since 1858. It is made from carefully selected and toasted sesame seeds, offering a classic, deep roasted aroma.

Pros:

• Rich, nutty aroma characteristic of many Asian dishes.
• Produced using traditional methods combined with modern quality control.
• Versatile as a flavouring oil for stir-fries, marinades, soups, and dressings.
• A brand-name product (Kadoya sesame oil) with a long history and high reputation.

Who it's for: For cooks seeking the authentic and intense flavour of toasted sesame oil as an essential pantry staple for their Asian culinary adventures.

Looking for Other Flavoring Oils?

If you haven't found the right sesame oil for you yet or wish to expand your collection of cooking oils, you can find more interesting products for your kitchen in our Mustard Oil category.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Oil

What is the difference between light and dark sesame oil?

Light sesame oil is cold-pressed from raw seeds, has a mild flavour, and is suitable for cold dishes. Dark sesame oil is extracted from toasted seeds, has an intense roasted aroma, and is mainly used as a finishing oil to flavour dishes.

Can you fry with sesame oil?

It depends on the type. Cold-pressed sesame oil has a low smoke point and is not heat-stable; therefore, it should not be used for frying. Its flavours are best preserved when used cold or added to dishes after cooking. Toasted sesame oil is also primarily used as a flavouring oil, not as a frying fat. Refined sesame oils, which have a less pronounced aroma, are better suited for high temperatures.

How should you store sesame oil?

Sesame oil should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place to protect its aroma and quality. Direct sunlight and heat can cause the oil to become rancid. After opening, the bottle should be tightly sealed and used promptly. Storing it in the refrigerator is possible for some varieties; please refer to the instructions on the packaging.