Organic Stone-Ground Chinese Sesame Paste (Zhi Ma Jiang)

The Mala Market's Pure Chinese Sesame Paste is made from single-origin Chinese sesame seeds, stone-ground without chemicals or heat and with no additives or preservatives. Its pristine supply chain and production have earned it USDA Organic certification—a rarity for Chinese-made products (as most manufacturers don't pursue that U.S. designation).

Another rarity is that the sesame seeds are not processed with heat and blades but are ground to a paste in a circular motion between two large stones (see photo). This centuries-old production method insures that the sesame paste retains both its nutrients and its singular texture and taste.

While similar to tahini, Chinese sesame paste is made from a variety of sesame grown in Xinjiang and is deeply toasted, giving it a much darker color and robust flavor. It is the only choice for Sichuan dan dan noodles, zajiang noodles and sesame noodles as well as Chinese cold dishes, desserts and hot pot dipping sauce. Also unlike tahini, a little goes a long way, so this jar should last through many bowls of savory, nutty noodles or festive hot pot dinners. 

Usage: Unlike major-brand peanut butters, which use additives like hydrogenated vegetable oil or palm oil to keep the solids and oil from separating, natural nut butters and seed pastes such as this one—which has no ingredients other than organic sesame seeds—will separate more and more over time. We recommend that you stir the contents thoroughly when you first open the jar, which will make the paste easier to stir each time you use it throughout its life. When cooking, you can dilute with water or sesame oil for a runnier consistency or lighter taste. Store in a cool, dark place.