Sesame (Sesamum indicum) is a tiny, oil-rich seed borne in the pods of a tropical flowering plant — flat, teardrop-shaped and pale ivory to black depending on hull. Mild and faintly nutty raw, it blooms into a deep, warm, irresistibly nutty aroma the moment it is toasted, and it is pressed for oil, ground into tahini and halva, and scattered over breads the world over.