There’s an unmistakable charm that fills the air when you indulge in your very own Crispy Golden Sesame Balls. The first time I took a bite of these delectable treats, I was transported to a bustling street market in Shanghai, where vendors skillfully flipped golden spheres into bubbling oil, filling the air with a nutty aroma. These delightful snacks, or Jian Dui as they’re traditionally called, bring together a luscious glutinous rice dough and a sweet red bean paste that melds beautifully into every chewy bite.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking for a weekend baking project, these golden delights are the perfect solution. Not only can you enjoy the classic red bean filling, but your creativity can shine through with variations like chocolate or peanut paste. As they fry to a perfect crisp, your kitchen transforms into a haven of warmth and comfort, inviting friends and family to share in this joyful experience. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create some crispy magic!
Why Will You Love Golden Sesame Balls Filled?
Irresistible flavors await: These Golden Sesame Balls Filled with sweet red bean paste offer a delicious blend of crispy and chewy textures that are hard to resist.
Versatility shines: Change the filling to suit your mood—try anything from chocolate to lotus seed for endless enjoyment!
Simple and satisfying: With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll find this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Cultural delight: Enjoy these delectable treats that bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen—ideal for festive occasions or casual snacking.
Perfect for sharing: Serve them warm alongside tea, and watch as friends and family gather around, eager for a taste of these delightful morsels!
Golden Sesame Balls Filled Ingredients
For the Dough
• Glutinous Rice Flour – Provides structure and chewy texture; substitute with sweet rice flour for best results.
• Water – Hydrates the flour to form dough; use warm water for easier mixing.
• Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough; can be reduced for a less sweet version.
For the Filling
• Red Bean Paste – A sweet filling that adds creaminess; can substitute with black sesame paste, peanut paste, or chocolate for a twist.
For Coating
• Roasted Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; toast before use for enhanced aroma.
For Frying
• Oil (for frying) – Essential for achieving that crispy texture; choose a neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil.
How to Make Golden Sesame Balls Filled
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Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and warm water. Stir gently until a smooth and elastic dough forms, about 5 minutes.
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Shape the Balls: Divide the dough into small portions, approximately the size of a golf ball. Flatten each portion with your fingers, add a spoonful of sweet red bean paste in the center, then carefully seal it and roll it into a ball.
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Coat with Sesame Seeds: Pour roasted sesame seeds into a shallow dish. Roll each ball in the seeds until they’re completely coated, ensuring a lovely nutty crunch on every bite.
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Fry: Heat a deep pan with enough oil to submerge the balls, reaching about 350°F. Fry the sesame balls in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the balls from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm, ideally alongside a pot of fragrant Chinese tea.
Optional: Drizzle with warm honey for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Golden Sesame Balls Filled?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Tea Selection: A fragrant cup of Chinese green or jasmine tea offers a light, refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the golden sesame balls.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings a burst of freshness and acidity that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Savory Dumplings: As part of a dim sum feast, serving savory dumplings creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
- Sesame-Wasabi Snap Peas: This crunchy side is perfect for adding a spicy kick, providing an exciting flavor contrast to the sweet, chewy sesame balls.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For an indulgent dessert experience, the creamy and sweet mango flavor pairs delightfully with the crispy texture of the sesame balls.
- Coconut Cream Drizzle: A warm coconut cream sauce drizzled over the sesame balls enhances their flavor while adding a luxurious, tropical touch.
Enjoy the versatility of your meal by exploring these pairings and letting your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Golden Sesame Balls Filled Variations
Embrace the joy of customization with these delightful twists that will elevate your Crispy Golden Sesame Balls to new heights.
- Chocolate Bliss: Swap in chocolate hazelnut spread for a decadent filling that adds a rich, sweet surprise.
- Peanut Sensation: Use creamy peanut butter instead of red bean paste for a nutty flavor that’ll have everyone reaching for more.
- Black Sesame Delight: Try black sesame paste for a more intense, earthy flavor that complements the crispy outer layer beautifully.
- Lotus Seed Indulgence: Fill with lotus seed paste for a traditional yet unique filling, offering a slight floral sweetness that enchants the palate.
- Fruit Fusion: Add a spoonful of your favorite fruit jam, like mango or strawberry, for a fresh burst of flavor that contrasts charmingly with the sesame crunch.
For an extra touch, consider flavoring the dough itself. Imagine the warmth of matcha weaving through the chewy exterior, or a hint of cocoa that harmonizes perfectly with any sweet filling.
So, unleash your creativity and let these variations transform your golden treats into something uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Golden Sesame Balls Filled with sweet red bean paste are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerating them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, the filling can be made up to 3 days prior and stored separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just roll the chilled balls in sesame seeds and fry them as directed, ensuring your oil is hot enough for the best crispy texture. This way, you can enjoy delicious, warm Golden Sesame Balls Filled with minimal last-minute effort, making them ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Expert Tips for Crispy Golden Sesame Balls
• Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; test it with a small piece of dough to prevent soggy sesame balls.
• Even Size: Maintain consistent ball sizes for even cooking. This helps them fry uniformly, enhancing their crispy exterior.
• Storage Wisdom: Store leftovers in an airtight container. To retain that crispy texture, reheat in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.
• Flavor Boost: Experiment with flavoring the dough! Add matcha or cocoa powder for a tasty twist on your Golden Sesame Balls Filled.
• Be Mindful of Filling: Avoid overfilling! Too much filling can make sealing difficult and result in bursts during frying—keep it just right for the best experience.
How to Store and Freeze Golden Sesame Balls Filled
Fridge: Store leftover golden sesame balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Fry them directly from the freezer until golden brown.
Reheating: To regain that delightful crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes. This method helps revive the crunchy texture.
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a few hours of frying, you can keep them at room temperature on a plate covered with a cloth to prevent drying out.
Golden Sesame Balls Filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right glutinous rice flour?
Absolutely! When selecting glutinous rice flour, look for a fine texture and make sure it’s labeled “glutinous” or “sweet rice flour.” This will give you the right chewy texture you desire. I often find the best options at Asian grocery stores; it’s worth checking those out!
How should I store leftover sesame balls?
Certainly! Store your leftover Golden Sesame Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps retain their fresh flavor. If you want them to stay crispy, it’s best to reheat them in an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.
Can I freeze Golden Sesame Balls?
Very! To freeze uncooked Golden Sesame Balls, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1 to 2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll keep for up to 1 month. When you’re craving a treat, fry them directly from the freezer until golden brown—no need to thaw!
What should I do if my balls burst while frying?
Oh no! If your Golden Sesame Balls burst while frying, it could be due to overfilling or not sealing them properly. Ensure you’re using just enough filling and closing them tightly. Frying at the correct oil temperature (around 350°F) is key, too. I always recommend testing the oil with a small piece of dough first!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free, but be mindful of the fillings you choose. If you use peanut paste or chocolate, make sure to check for allergies. These delightful treats are usually vegan-friendly, but double-check your ingredients, especially the sugar and paste you use, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Golden Sesame Balls Filled with Sweet Bliss for Your Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and warm water. Stir gently until a smooth and elastic dough forms, about 5 minutes.
- Divide the dough into small portions, approximately the size of a golf ball. Flatten each portion with your fingers, add a spoonful of sweet red bean paste in the center, then carefully seal it and roll it into a ball.
- Pour roasted sesame seeds into a shallow dish. Roll each ball in the seeds until they're completely coated, ensuring a lovely nutty crunch on every bite.
- Heat a deep pan with enough oil to submerge the balls, reaching about 350°F. Fry the sesame balls in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the balls from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm, ideally alongside a pot of fragrant Chinese tea.