Walnut and Black Sesame Paste

Why people make this paste

Walnuts are rich in phospholipids — exactly the kind of fat the brain craves — which is why the kernel is nicknamed a “brain food,” and why children can use it often in cooking. Black sesame is a fine, strengthening food traditionally valued for nourishing the blood, moistening the bowels, generating fluids and supporting the hair. Put the two together and you get a warm dessert paste traditionally taken to support memory, ease early greying, and soften a dry stool.