If you've ever tried to recreate the incredible flavour of a restaurant-quality hot pot dip or a bowl of authentic sesame noodles at home, you know that one ingredient is non-negotiable: Chinese sesame paste. Yet, finding the right one can be confusing. Stroll down a supermarket aisle and you might see tahini, but it's not quite the same. The colour is different, the flavour is milder and it just doesn't deliver that deep, nutty richness your recipe calls for.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the options. We'll explain the key differences between various types of Chinese sesame sauce and pastes, from pure and blended to spicy and ready-made. Our goal is to provide clear, practical advice so you can choose the perfect product for your culinary creations, whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting to explore Chinese cuisine.
How to Choose the Right Chinese Sesame Paste
Before you buy sesame paste online UK, understanding a few key factors will ensure you get exactly what you need. Consider these points to make a more informed choice.
1. Pure Paste vs. Blended Paste
The most fundamental choice is between a pure or a blended paste.
- Pure Sesame Paste: Made from 100% toasted sesame seeds, this paste has a dark colour and a powerful, nutty and slightly bitter flavour profile. It's incredibly thick and requires dilution with water or oil before use. This type offers the most authentic base and gives you complete control over the final taste of your sesame noodle sauce or dip.
- Sesame Peanut Paste: This is a common blend that combines toasted sesame with peanuts. The addition of peanuts results in a creamier texture, a milder flavour and a subtle sweetness. It's a great option if you find pure sesame paste too intense or if you're making a sauce that benefits from a smoother, richer consistency.
2. Paste vs. Ready-to-Use Sauce
Your second consideration is convenience. Do you want to build a sauce from scratch or have one ready to go?
- Pastes: As mentioned, pure and blended pastes are concentrated bases. They are versatile but require extra steps to prepare. You'll need to dilute the paste and add your own seasonings like soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and sugar to create a balanced hot pot dipping sauce.
- Ready-to-Use Sauces: These products have done the work for you. They come as complete dipping sauces or dressings, often with separate sachets for the paste and the seasoning liquid. Options like a pre-made spicy sesame dressing are perfect for quick meals, salads or as a simple dip for dumplings.
3. Check the Ingredients and Packaging
Always take a moment to look at the label. For a pure paste, the ingredient list should simply read "SESAME". For blends or sauces, check for other ingredients and potential allergens like PEANUTS or SOYBEANS. Packaging is also a practical consideration. Traditional jars are common, but some modern options come in convenient squeeze bags, which can make dispensing less messy and storage easier.
Top Chinese Sesame Paste Recommendations
Here are a few noteworthy options available in the UK, each suited for different culinary needs.
Wang Zhi He Sesame Paste Bag 168g
- Why It Stands Out: This product offers 100% pure Chinese sesame paste in a modern, convenient squeeze pouch. It eliminates the need to scoop thick paste from a jar, making it easier to measure and use.
- Pros:
- Made from 100% sesame for an authentic, robust flavour.
- Squeeze packaging allows for easy, mess-free dispensing.
- Highly versatile for creating custom dipping sauces, marinades and noodle dressings.
- Who is it for: Home cooks who want a pure, high-quality base and appreciate practical packaging. It's ideal for those who enjoy customising their sauces from scratch.
Xiaolongkan Original Sesame Dipping Sauce 100g
- Why It Stands Out: From the renowned Sichuan hot pot brand Xiao Long Kan, this is a complete hot pot dipping sauce kit. It includes a sachet of rich sesame paste and a separate sachet of savoury seasoning sauce, providing a perfectly balanced dip with minimal effort.
- Pros:
- Two-part system ensures a fresh, well-balanced flavour.
- Ready to use after a quick stir.
- Delivers an authentic restaurant-style hot pot experience at home.
- Who is it for: Anyone looking for the ultimate convenience without compromising on authentic flavour, especially fans of Sichuan hot pot.
Wang Zhi He Sesame Paste with Peanut Butter 225g
- Why It Stands Out: This is a classic sesame peanut paste blend. The combination of sesame and peanuts creates a sauce that is exceptionally smooth, creamy and less intense than its pure sesame counterpart.
- Pros:
- Simple, pure ingredients: only sesame and peanuts.
- Creamier texture and milder flavour profile.
- Versatile for use in noodles, as a dip or even as a spread.
- Who is it for: Cooks who prefer a smoother, sweeter and less bitter sesame flavour. It's also a great starting point for those new to using Chinese sesame paste.
JIA DIAN ZI WEI Spicy Sesame Paste Dressing 60g
- Why It Stands Out: This is a single-serving, ready-to-use spicy sesame dressing. It combines the nutty depth of sesame with a savoury, spicy kick, making it an instant flavour booster for a variety of dishes.
- Pros:
- Completely ready to eat, no preparation needed.
- Single-serving packet is convenient for quick lunches or meals for one.
- Adds a complex, spicy and nutty flavour to noodles, salads or cold appetisers.
- Who is it for: Individuals seeking maximum convenience. It's perfect for busy people who want to add instant, authentic flavour to a simple meal without any fuss.
Looking for Other Options?
Our recommendations cover a range of uses, from foundational pastes to convenient sauces. However, the world of sesame condiments is vast. If you're looking for a different blend, a larger size or simply wish to see more choices, you can explore our full range of sesame mix products.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Sesame Paste
What is the difference between Chinese sesame paste and tahini?
The main difference lies in the preparation of the sesame seeds. Chinese sesame paste is made from seeds that have been deeply toasted, which gives it a darker colour, a thicker consistency and a much richer, nuttier flavour. Tahini, common in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, is typically made from raw or very lightly toasted sesame seeds, resulting in a lighter colour, runnier texture and a milder taste. They are generally not good substitutes for one another in recipes that call for that distinct toasted flavour.
How do you prepare Chinese sesame paste for a dipping sauce?
Pure sesame paste is too thick to use directly from the jar. The key is to dilute it slowly. Place your desired amount of paste in a bowl. Add a small amount of warm water or sesame oil and begin to whisk. The paste will initially seize up and get thicker before it starts to loosen. Continue adding liquid in small increments and whisking vigorously until you reach a smooth, creamy consistency similar to single cream. From there, you can add seasonings like light soy sauce, black vinegar, minced garlic, sugar and chilli oil to create your perfect sauce.
Where can I buy sesame paste online in the UK?
You can find an excellent selection of authentic Chinese sesame paste and sauces at online retailers that specialise in East Asian foods. Platforms like Joybuy offer a curated collection of products, from pure pastes by heritage brands to convenient, ready-to-use dressings. This allows you to browse and buy sesame paste online UK and have it delivered directly to your door, ensuring you get the right ingredient for your cooking.
