Sesame Balls Recipe (Jian Dui)

Glutinous rice flour: This is a type of flour made from sticky rice, giving the sesame balls their characteristic chewy texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.

Warm water: Helps to form the dough by hydrating the flour.

Red bean paste: A sweet filling made from red beans, commonly used in Asian desserts.

Sesame seeds: Coats the outside of the balls, adding a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

Oil for frying: Used to deep fry the sesame balls until they are golden brown.

When sealing the dough around the red bean paste, make sure to pinch the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during frying. This ensures that the sesame balls maintain their shape and the filling stays intact.

• glutinous rice flour - Substitute with sweet rice flour: Sweet rice flour has a similar sticky texture and is often used in Asian desserts, making it a suitable replacement.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide the necessary sweetness and adds a slight floral note, though it may alter the texture slightly.

• warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and a slightly creamier texture to the dough.

• red bean paste - Substitute with lotus seed paste: Lotus seed paste has a similar texture and sweetness, making it a common alternative in Asian pastries.

• sesame seeds - Substitute with crushed peanuts: Crushed peanuts can provide a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, though the taste will be slightly different.

• frying oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying.

• Allow the sesame balls to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the sesame balls in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

• For longer storage, you can refrigerate the sesame balls. Wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap to prevent them from sticking together, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the oven as mentioned above before serving.

• To freeze, arrange the sesame balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the sesame balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the sesame balls in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they are warmed through and the exterior is crisp.

• Avoid microwaving the sesame balls as this can make them chewy and alter their texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sesame balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to retain their crispiness.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sesame balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method is quick and keeps them crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the sesame balls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through. This method is the fastest but may result in a slightly softer texture.

• Steaming Method: If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the sesame balls by steaming them. Place them in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 5 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method keeps them moist and tender.

• Pan Frying Method: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame balls and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy. This method adds a bit of extra crunch.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar, and to knead the dough.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water.

• Spoon: Useful for placing the red bean paste into the center of the dough balls.

• Deep fryer: Ideal for frying the sesame balls to achieve an even golden brown color.

• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the sesame balls from the hot oil and allowing excess oil to drain.

• Paper towels: Necessary for draining the fried sesame balls and absorbing any excess oil.

• Plate: Use this to serve the warm sesame balls.

Prepare the filling: Make the red bean paste filling in advance and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of cooking.

Uniform shape: Use a small ice cream scoop to ensure each dough ball is the same size, which helps them cook evenly.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and sesame seeds before starting to streamline the process.

Heat oil efficiently: Use a deep fryer with a temperature control to quickly reach the ideal frying temperature, ensuring the sesame balls cook perfectly.