Pasteli- sweet treat or health food?

Pasteli originated in Greese and the Middle East over 6,000 years ago. The traditional recipe contains just two ingredients: sesame seeds and honey. While today Pasteli is considered candy, historcially it was seen as a health food.

Sesame seeds are an incredibly rich sources of many essential minerals like

calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, magnesium, selenium, and copper. Many of these minerals have a vital role in bone mineralization, red blood cell production, enzyme synthesis, hormone production, as well as regulation of cardiac and skeletal muscle activities.

There are also numerous health benefits that can be gained from honey. It contains antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It boosts athletic performance, and is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Honey can also be used for skin and wound care.

Warriors would eat Pasteli in order to build energy before battle, I guess you could think of Pasteli as the original energy bar.

This week we are making traditional Pasteli, with a little Gomasio added for that extra boost of minerals from the hand collected sea salt and toasted seaweed. There are many other ways to incorporate these sweet little seeds into your diet.

• Add sesame seeds into the batter the next time you make homemade bread, muffins or cookies.

• Use the traditional macrobiotic seasoning, gomasio, to enliven your food.

• Sesame seeds add a great touch to steamed broccoli that has been sprinkled with lemon juice.

• Spread tahini (sesame paste) on rice crackers and either drizzle with honey for a sweet treat or combine with miso for a savory snack.

• Combine toasted sesame seeds, olive oil, rice vinegar, coconut aminos and crushed garlic and use as a quick dressing for salads, vegetables and noodles.

• Add to smoothies for a creamy texture and healthy boost of minerals.