benne

American  

[ben-ee] / ˈbɛn i /

Or benny

noun

1. Southern U.S., especially South Carolina, and Bahamian English. the sesame plant or its seeds.

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benne British  

/ ˈbɛnɪ /

noun

1. another name for sesame

2. the edible oil obtained from sesame seeds

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Etymology

Origin of benne

1760–70, < Wolof, Malinke bene

Example Sentences

By using African-influenced ingredients like smoked canned fish and benne seeds, I find that our most traditional and well-loved Southern dishes are bumped up in flavor and texture.

From Salon • Jan. 28, 2022

The big hit on the list of starters was the benne seed Brussels sprouts, roasted crispy — Cindy Lou’s does crispness impeccably — and with a beautiful umami pop from a soy- and honey-based glaze.

From Washington Post • Dec. 2, 2020

Then he covered the rice with chutney made from grinding toasted benne seeds; an herb called shadow benne that is similar to cilantro; some bird’s-eye peppers, and garlic with a little oil.

From New York Times • Feb. 13, 2018

The addictive brown sugar and benne seed popcorn expertly melds sugar and salt.

From Time • Aug. 12, 2014

She was sitting there pretty as you please in a white blouse and striped skirt, sipping on lemonade and eating Mama’s benne seed cookies.

From "Root Magic" by Eden Royce