Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls)

Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) are a beloved treat that perfectly blend a golden, crunchy exterior with a sweet, chewy filling. These deep-fried delights, coated generously in toasted sesame seeds, offer an irresistible texture and flavor combination that has captured hearts worldwide. Whether you enjoy them as a festive snack, a dim sum favorite, or a comforting homemade dessert, mastering the art of Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) is incredibly rewarding and easier than you might think.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy on the outside: The deep frying creates a satisfying golden crust coated in nutty sesame seeds that crackle with every bite.
• Chewy and sweet inside: Soft, glutinous rice dough encases a sweet filling, balancing texture and flavor beautifully.
• Simple ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can make this authentic dessert at home without fuss.
• Perfect for sharing: These bite-sized treats are ideal for parties, festivals, or family gatherings.
• Customizable fillings: Easily swap or combine fillings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each element plays a vital role: glutinous rice flour provides chewy elasticity, sesame seeds add crunchy aroma, and sweet pastes fill the core with lusciousness.

• Glutinous rice flour: The base of the dough, giving it that chewy, stretchy texture essential for authenticity.
• Water: Helps bind the dough to the right consistency—neither too sticky nor dry.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted for a nutty flavor and a crunchy coating that defines this snack.
• Sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste: Classic fillings providing smooth, rich sweetness inside.
• Sugar: Just a touch to enhance sweetness throughout the dough and filling.
• Baking powder: Adds a subtle lightness and helps the dough puff slightly when fried.
• Oil for deep frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for crisp, golden results.

Variations for Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls)

One of the best things about Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) is how easy they are to adapt. Whether you want to accommodate dietary needs or experiment with new flavors, these variations will spark your creativity.

• Different fillings: Swap classic red bean paste with black sesame paste, peanut butter, or even chocolate for a twist.
• Gluten-free options: While traditionally made with glutinous rice flour, try mixing with tapioca starch for a slightly different texture.
• Colorful dough: Add natural coloring like matcha powder or beet juice to brighten the exterior for festive occasions.
• Smaller or larger sizes: Adjust the size to make bite-sized snacks or more substantial desserts for sharing.
• Baked alternative: For a lighter take, bake the sesame balls instead of deep frying, though crispiness won’t be quite the same.

How to Make Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing glutinous rice flour, sugar, and baking powder in a bowl. Gradually add warm water while stirring until the dough comes together into a smooth, pliable ball that’s soft but not sticky. Cover and let it rest briefly to hydrate.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

If you’re using store-bought sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste, divide it into small, bite-sized balls. If you prefer, make your own filling by cooking down ingredients and shaping into portions.

Step 3: Shape the Sesame Balls

Pinch off dough pieces and flatten them into discs. Place a filling ball in the center, then carefully wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges. Roll each ball gently to smooth out cracks.

Step 4: Coat with Sesame Seeds

Moisten each filled dough ball lightly with water, then roll it in a plate filled with toasted sesame seeds until fully coated. This step creates the classic crisp, nutty exterior.

Step 5: Deep Fry the Balls

Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat. Carefully drop sesame balls into the hot oil, frying in batches. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until golden brown and puffed, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Pro Tips for Making Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls)

• Perfect dough consistency: Adjust water gradually—too wet makes balls fall apart, too dry leads to cracks.
• Seal well: Ensure dough fully encloses the filling to prevent leakage during frying.
• Oil temperature matters: Fry at medium heat so the balls cook through before burning outside.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each sesame ball room to expand and fry evenly.
• Toast sesame seeds fresh: For maximum aroma and crunch, toast sesame seeds just before coating the dough.

How to Serve Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls)

Garnishes

Serve Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar or crushed nuts to add an extra flavor layer and appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair with traditional Chinese tea blends, such as jasmine or oolong, which complement the sweetness and cut through the fried texture perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the balls on a decorative plate with edible flowers or a dipping sauce like condensed milk or coconut cream for a modern twist that invites dipping and sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 1 day to preserve crispiness, or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked sesame balls by arranging them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen when ready for an easy treat anytime.

Reheating

To regain crispiness, reheat leftover balls in a hot oven or air fryer rather than the microwave, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice flour instead of glutinous rice flour?

Regular rice flour will not provide the chewy texture essential to Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls). Glutinous rice flour is unique in giving that stretch and softness.

Is it possible to bake instead of deep fry?

Yes, baking is an option if you prefer less oil, but expect a different texture—less crunchy and fluffy compared to frying.

What fillings work best for these sesame balls?

Traditional fillings include sweet red bean paste and lotus seed paste, but black sesame paste, peanut butter, or even sweetened coconut make delicious alternatives.

How do I prevent sesame balls from bursting while frying?

Make sure the dough is not too thin, seal the filling completely, and fry in moderately heated oil to let the dough cook evenly without bursting.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

It’s best to make the dough fresh for optimal texture, but you can wrap and refrigerate it briefly if needed; bring to room temperature before shaping.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) are a delightful treat that bring joy with each bite. Their addictive combination of crispy sesame-coated dough and sweet, chewy filling is truly a culinary treasure worth mastering. Try this recipe and enjoy sharing this wonderful taste of tradition with your loved ones.

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