Fried eggs are a beloved breakfast staple across the UK and worldwide. While scrambled, poached, and boiled eggs all have their merits, a perfectly cooked fried egg with a golden yolk is hard to beat. For those looking to enhance their fried egg game, culinary experts recommend adding a simple ingredient to the pan before cooking: sesame seeds.
Why Add Sesame Seeds to Fried Eggs?
The experts at Sift and Simmer suggest that toasting sesame seeds in the pan before adding eggs gives them a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavour. Widely used in Asian cuisine, sesame seeds create a wonderfully crispy base for the eggs. Pairing them with a drizzle of chilli oil adds even more depth, making for a fantastic alternative to your usual breakfast or lunch.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavour
You only need a few cupboard essentials: two tablespoons of sesame seeds (white, black, or a mix), one teaspoon of vegetable oil, two large eggs, optional chilli oil, and salt and pepper to taste. These eggs are not just for breakfast—they also work beautifully on top of rice or noodle dishes for an evening meal.
How to Make Sesame Fried Eggs
Follow this straightforward method:
- Place a frying pan over low-medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and toast for about 30 seconds.
- Pour the vegetable oil over the seeds.
- Crack the eggs over the sesame seeds and cover the pan with a lid, leaving a slight gap for steam to escape.
- Cook for four to five minutes, or until the eggs reach your preferred consistency.
- Use a spatula to lift the eggs out of the pan. Serve on a plate with additional sesame seeds or chilli oil on top, seasoned with salt and pepper.
This simple trick transforms ordinary fried eggs into a crunchy, flavourful dish that will elevate any meal.



