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Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls)

Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls)
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Chinese Jian Dui (Crispy Sesame Balls) are deep-fried glutinous rice flour dough balls coated in toasted sesame seeds, featuring a crunchy exterior and a sweet, chewy filling. This authentic Chinese dessert is easy to make with simple ingredients and perfect for sharing at parties or festivals.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Approximately 1/3 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

Filling Options

  • Sweet red bean paste (about 1/2 cup, portioned into small balls)
  • Or lotus seed paste (about 1/2 cup, portioned into small balls)

Coating and Frying

  • 1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds
  • Oil for deep frying (enough for deep frying, neutral oil with high smoke point)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water little by little while stirring until a smooth, pliable dough forms that is soft but not sticky. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to hydrate.
  2. Prepare the Filling: If using store-bought sweet red bean paste or lotus seed paste, divide it into small bite-sized balls about 1 teaspoon each. Alternatively, prepare your own filling by cooking and shaping it into portions.
  3. Shape the Sesame Balls: Pinch off portions of the dough and flatten them into discs. Place a filling ball in the center of each disc, then carefully wrap the dough around it, fully enclosing the filling. Roll gently between your palms to smooth out cracks and form a ball.
  4. Coat with Sesame Seeds: Lightly moisten each filled dough ball with water, then roll it in a shallow bowl of toasted sesame seeds until fully coated to create the nutty, crispy exterior.
  5. Deep Fry the Balls: Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat to about 320-350°F (160-175°C). Fry the sesame balls in batches, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until golden brown and puffed, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust water gradually when making dough; too much causes balls to fall apart, too little causes cracking.
  • Seal dough edges well around filling to prevent leakage during frying.
  • Maintain medium oil temperature to cook sesame balls through without burning.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pan; fry in batches for even cooking and expansion.
  • Toast sesame seeds fresh just before coating for maximum aroma and crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chinese Jian Dui, Crispy Sesame Balls, Glutinous Rice Flour Dessert, Deep Fried Snack, Red Bean Paste Sesame Balls

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/chinese-jian-dui-crispy-sesame-balls/