Dishes without sesame

February 14, 2013 7:53 AM

What dishes could I order that are unlikely to have sesame/sesame oil, in a Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese or pan-Asian restaurant?
posted by xo to food & drink (5 answers total)

Pad Thai shouldn't have sesame of any sort in it.
posted by something something at 7:55 AM on February 14

Japanese is easiest. Miso soup, edamame, and sushi. It's possible that some sushi rolls might be garnished with sesame seeds, but it's not standard procedure, and they should be able to tell you if a roll is garnished with sesame seeds. Nigiri sushi (which is just fish on top of rice balls) or sashimi should be totally safe.
posted by snowmentality at 8:07 AM on February 14

I think most Thai food is sesame-free. I am not an expert, but I've eaten lots of Thai food and never tasted any, nor have I seen it used in a recipe. It's a pretty conspicuous flavor.
posted by TheRedArmy at 9:43 AM on February 14

Likewise in my experiences with Vietnamese food, for that matter. Any kind of pho is definitely sesame free.
posted by TheRedArmy at 9:44 AM on February 14

Yes it would be unusual for most Thai or Viet dishes to have sesame oil. If you are concerned, just ask the waitstaff.
posted by smoke at 1:33 PM on February 14