Black Magic Sesame Crisps Recipe

Black Magic Sesame Crisps Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Heres the recipe for the delicious Black Magic crisps (formerly known as crackers) that were featured in the Horrible Hand video. Theyre incredibly flavorful, and I promise you wont be able to stop eating them. The best part? You can easily make these crisps at home with just a few ingredients!

Ingredients:

  • 2 large egg whites
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup black sesame seeds

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Line a baking sheet with a half sheet-size Silpat nonstick silicone baking mat (16 1/2x11 1/2 inches) for easy removal of the crisps.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the egg whites, vegetable oil, salt, and sugar. Whisk for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until the sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Using a spatula, gently fold in the black sesame seeds until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  5. Transfer the batter onto the prepared Silpat-lined baking sheet. Spread the mixture out into a thin, even layer, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
  6. Tap the baking sheet a few times on the counter to level the mixture further. This ensures the crisps bake evenly.
  7. For round crisps, you can alternatively drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the Silpat mat and use the back of a spoon to spread them into thin circles.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the crisps turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, especially if theyre thinner, as they will cook faster.
  9. Let the crisps cool completely for about 20 minutes on the baking sheet.
  10. Once cooled, peel the sheet of sesame crisps off the Silpat mat and break them into cracker-sized pieces. Enjoy your homemade sesame crisps!

Chef's Notes:

  • If you prefer a different shape, press the hot crisps between two bowls to form edible cups that can be filled with various sesame seed-friendly fillings.
  • For quicker baking, make the crisps thinner and smaller, but watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories 167
Total Fat 12g
Saturated Fat 1g
Cholesterol 0mg
Sodium 108mg
Total Carbohydrate 12g
Dietary Fiber 2g
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 4g
Calcium 107mg
Iron 2mg
Potassium 76mg

The Black Magic Sesame Crisps are a delightful snack that merges sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. This recipe, developed by Chef John, has gained widespread popularity for its simplicity and bold flavor. By using black sesame seeds, the crisps take on a distinct flavor profile and striking appearance that makes them both intriguing and addictive. Below, we explore the history, regional nuances, and special characteristics that set these crisps apart from other similar snacks.

History of Black Magic Sesame Crisps

The concept of using sesame seeds in cooking dates back thousands of years, particularly in regions like the Middle East and Asia, where sesame is considered a symbol of immortality. While sesame seeds have long been a staple in cuisines ranging from Indian to Chinese, the Black Magic Sesame Crisps are a relatively recent innovation. This snack was popularized by Chef John in one of his viral videos, where he demonstrated how to create this easy yet flavorful treat. The name "Black Magic" comes from the magical allure of black sesame seeds, which are less commonly used in Western cooking but bring a deep, nutty flavor and striking appearance to any dish.

Regional Characteristics and Variations

In many Asian cuisines, sesame seedsparticularly black sesameare used in both savory and sweet dishes. Black sesame is especially popular in Chinese and Japanese desserts, such as sesame paste and black sesame soup. However, Chef Johns Black Magic Sesame Crisps offer a twist by combining these seeds in a crunchy, savory snack form, which differs from their traditional sweet applications in Asian cooking.

Additionally, sesame seeds are often toasted or incorporated into other ingredients like rice or noodles, but in this recipe, they are used in their whole form, allowing their full flavor to shine. This method of preparation is quite different from more common snack recipes in the U.S. that use simpler ingredients like potato chips or pretzels. The Black Magic Sesame Crisps introduce a bold new flavor profile to the traditional snack category, emphasizing the unique texture and taste of sesame seeds.

How These Crisps Stand Out

What makes Black Magic Sesame Crisps stand out from similar snack options is their delicate balance of flavors. Unlike standard crackers or crisps, which might rely on heavier spices or artificial flavors, these crisps showcase the natural flavor of sesame seeds, enhanced by a touch of sweetness, salt, and a subtle kick from cayenne pepper. The result is a snack that is both familiar and unique, with a complex flavor that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

Another distinguishing feature is the simplicity of the recipe. The ingredients are minimalegg whites, vegetable oil, sugar, flour, sesame seeds, and cayenneand the preparation is quick and straightforward. This makes the crisps an ideal snack for those looking for an easy yet delicious homemade alternative to store-bought options. The ability to customize the recipe by adjusting the thickness or shape of the crisps is another appealing aspect that allows for creative variations.

Where to Serve Black Magic Sesame Crisps

Black Magic Sesame Crisps are versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. These crisps make an excellent snack at parties or gatherings, offering something a bit different from the usual finger foods. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, including hummus, guacamole, or a tangy yogurt-based dip, making them a perfect addition to a snack platter.

In addition to being served as an appetizer or snack, these crisps can also be enjoyed as part of a light lunch or an afternoon tea spread. Their crispy texture and balanced flavor profile make them an ideal accompaniment to beverages like herbal teas, wine, or even cocktails. For more formal events, these crisps can be served as part of a unique hors d'oeuvres selection, adding a touch of sophistication to any menu.

Fun Facts About Black Magic Sesame Crisps

1. The unique color of these crisps comes from the use of black sesame seeds, which are not only more flavorful than white sesame seeds but also packed with antioxidants and nutrients.

2. Black sesame seeds have a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially in Asian cultures, where they are believed to support kidney health, improve circulation, and promote longevity.

3. Although the crisps are relatively new to Western palates, sesame-based snacks are actually quite common in many parts of the world, especially in the Middle East and Asia, where sesame is a vital ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes.

4. The simplicity of the ingredients used in this recipe makes it a perfect option for anyone looking for a gluten-free or low-sugar snack alternative. The absence of artificial flavors or preservatives also makes these crisps a healthier choice compared to many commercial snack options.

Whether you're looking to impress your guests with something unique or simply craving a delicious snack, Black Magic Sesame Crisps offer a taste of culinary magic that's hard to resist. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipthe possibilities are endless!

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FAQ about Black Magic Sesame Crisps Recipe

Store the crisps in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life for up to 2 weeks.

Yes, you can substitute white sesame seeds for black sesame seeds. The flavor may be slightly different, but the texture and crunch will remain similar. Some users prefer the look and flavor of black sesame seeds, but both work well in this recipe.

Yes, you can adjust the thickness of the crisps. For thinner crisps, spread the batter out more evenly and make sure to monitor the baking time closely, as they will cook faster. For thicker crisps, the baking time may need to be slightly extended.

If your crisps stick to the mat, make sure to spread the batter in an even, thin layer and leave a 1-inch border. If using a silicone mat, try lightly greasing it or using parchment paper instead to avoid sticking.

Yes, you can freeze the crisps. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag before freezing. They should maintain their quality for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

While egg whites help provide structure and crispiness, you can try substituting with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes until it thickens). Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.

This recipe contains egg whites and sugar, so it may not be suitable for those with egg allergies or those following a vegan diet. You can experiment with substitutions such as egg replacer and sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, but this may change the flavor and texture.

The crisps are done when they are golden brown and crispy. If you're unsure, you can check by gently pressing a corner of the crisps with a spatula to see if it breaks easily. If they’re still soft, bake for an additional few minutes.

Comments

Jack Anderson

09/22/2024 06:57:08 AM

This dish was incredibly satisfying and addictive. I added a pinch of cayenne as Chef John recommended, which elevated the flavors to a whole new level. It reminded me of halvah but with a delightful savory twist from the cayenne. Note to self: avoid using my silpat next time. Mine is mesh-like and the batter got baked into it, making it a hassle to clean. Parchment paper will definitely be my go-to for the next round.

Dennis Anderson

09/30/2023 02:00:02 PM

Absolutely amazing! I created tombstone-shaped biscuits for a Greenbean Casserole Graveyard and used the remaining dough for a regular batch. They were a hit with everyone! I also crafted a spooky severed hand to complement the theme. I will definitely make these again for any event!

Matthew Lewis

09/16/2023 11:54:56 PM

Delicious, but slightly too sweet for my liking. As a diabetic, I have been contemplating reducing the sugar content or using artificial sweeteners in my cooking. However, I decided to follow the original recipe this time to have a baseline for future experiments. I am unsure about the minimum amount of sugar needed for optimal browning. I used white sesame seeds this time due to availability, but I plan to purchase black sesame seeds for my next cooking venture.

Susan Evans

05/22/2023 03:38:19 AM

I had a fantastic experience with this recipe! It was simple yet delicious. What I appreciated most was how easy the technique was and that the ingredients were easy to find without any complicated steps. The only downside for me was that it was a bit too sweet for my liking. I might adjust by increasing the salt or adding sesame oil to balance it out. I also realized that using a mix of white and black sesame seeds might have altered the taste slightly due to ingredient substitution.

Thomas Mitchell

08/15/2023 09:48:41 PM

Simple to follow the instructions. Not overly sweet, which is perfect. Enjoyed the satisfying crunch. Remember to roll out the dough thinly.

Stephanie Miller

11/23/2023 02:03:32 PM

I followed the recipe instructions after watching Chef John's YouTube video today and the result was delightful! I had some black sesame seeds that I needed to use up, as I make my own everything seasoning but struggle to finish the whole container quickly. These crackers are going straight into my family cookbook for sure. Thank you!

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