Black sesame paste (Zhi Ma Hu)
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1. About this recipe
Black sesame paste — zhi ma hu — is one of the most beloved Chinese tonic foods, traditionally given to support Kidney yin and Liver blood, prevent premature greying of hair, ease constipation in older adults and nourish the skin. It is sweet, warming and deeply nourishing — a small spoonful at breakfast or as a dessert is a daily habit for many TCM-conscious Chinese families.
2. Ingredients
- 200g raw black sesame seeds
- 100g rolled oats (optional — thickens)
- 30g walnuts
- 30g rock sugar (or 2 tbsp brown sugar)
- Hot water for serving
3. Method
- Toast the black sesame in a dry pan over low heat, stirring constantly, for 5–7 minutes until they smell nutty and start to pop. Do not burn.
- Toast the oats in the same way, 3–4 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then grind sesame, oats and walnuts together in a high-speed blender or coffee grinder until fine.
- Stir in rock sugar (powdered) and store in a sealed jar.
- To serve: 2 tbsp powder mixed with 200ml hot water, stirred to a smooth porridge consistency. Adjust sweetness to taste.
4. Variations
- Add 1 tbsp ground flaxseed for extra fibre.
- Add 1 tbsp ground goji berries for stronger blood support.
- Use honey instead of sugar (after the porridge has cooled slightly to preserve enzymes).
5. When to eat it
Eaten daily, black sesame paste is a long-term tonic for the Kidney and Liver. Particularly indicated for: premature grey hair, dry hair and dry skin, constipation in older adults, postnatal recovery, and yin-deficient menopausal women. Avoid in active diarrhoea or heavy damp patterns. Daily portion: 2 tbsp.
