Sesame Balls Recipe

Chinese · Dessert · 45 min total

Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, these Chinese sesame balls (jian dui) are filled with sweet red bean paste and deep-fried to golden perfection. A classic dim sum treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water, warm
• 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste (or lotus seed paste)
• 1/2 cup white sesame seeds
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then flatten into a disc.
3. Place about 1 teaspoon of red bean paste in the center of each disc. Gather the edges to seal, then roll into a smooth ball.
4. Roll each ball in sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the sesame balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

• For best texture, use fresh glutinous rice flour.
• Ensure the oil temperature is not too high, or the balls will brown too quickly and remain raw inside.
• Leftover sesame balls can be reheated in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

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