Sesame Balls with Red Bean Paste

Sesame Balls with Red Bean Paste, known as Jian Dui in Chinese cuisine, are a beloved treat featuring a crispy, golden exterior adorned with sesame seeds and a sweet, smooth red bean paste filling. These delightful confections are traditionally enjoyed during festive occasions such as the Lunar New Year and are a staple in dim sum offerings. Their unique combination of textures and flavors makes them a favorite among dessert enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: This recipe captures the traditional taste of Chinese sesame balls, offering a genuine culinary experience.
• Simple Ingredients: Utilizing only a handful of readily available ingredients, this recipe is both accessible and straightforward.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as a dessert, snack, or festive offering, these sesame balls are suitable for various occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat to enjoy a warm, crispy treat anytime.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Glutinous rice flour
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Boiling water
• Sweetened red bean paste (chilled)
• White sesame seeds (raw or toasted)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Gradually add boiling water, stirring continuously until a dough forms. Knead the dough until smooth and pliable. If the dough is too sticky, add more glutinous rice flour; if too dry, add warm water incrementally.
2. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container. Allow it to rest for 30 minutes to enhance elasticity.
3. Divide the Filling: While the dough rests, divide the chilled red bean paste into equal portions, rolling each into a ball approximately 1 tablespoon in size.
4. Shape the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into equal pieces corresponding to the number of red bean paste balls. Flatten each dough piece into a disc about 2–3 inches in diameter.
5. Assemble the Balls: Place a red bean paste ball in the center of each dough disc. Gently wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Roll between your palms to form a smooth, round ball.
6. Coat with Sesame Seeds: Lightly moisten each ball with water, then roll it in sesame seeds until fully coated. Press gently to ensure the seeds adhere well.
7. Fry the Sesame Balls: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 290–300°F (143–149°C). Carefully add a few sesame balls at a time, ensuring they do not stick together. Fry for 10 minutes, gently moving them to promote even cooking.
8. Increase Heat for Crispiness: After 10 minutes, raise the oil temperature to 350°F (177°C) and continue frying for an additional 5 minutes until the balls are golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain and Cool: Remove the sesame balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 10 sesame balls
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Alternative Fillings: Substitute red bean paste with lotus seed paste, black sesame paste, or sweet mung bean paste for different flavor profiles.
• Sweet Potato Dough: Incorporate mashed sweet potato into the dough for added sweetness and a vibrant color.
• Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the sesame balls at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, though the texture will differ from the traditional fried version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place cooled sesame balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in a toaster oven, air fryer, or conventional oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

What is the origin of sesame balls?

Sesame balls, or Jian Dui, originated during the Tang Dynasty in China and have since become a popular treat across East and Southeast Asia, often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.

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

No, glutinous rice flour is essential for achieving the chewy texture characteristic of sesame balls. Regular rice flour will not provide the same consistency.

Is it necessary to chill the red bean paste before using?

Chilling the red bean paste makes it firmer and easier to shape into balls, facilitating the assembly process.

Why did my sesame balls burst during frying?

Bursting can occur if the dough is too thin or not sealed properly around the filling. Ensure the dough evenly encases the filling without any gaps or thin spots.

Can I freeze sesame balls for later use?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked sesame balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

How do I prevent sesame seeds from falling off during frying?

After coating the balls with sesame seeds, gently press the seeds into the dough to help them adhere better during frying.

What type of oil is best for frying sesame balls?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, to ensure even frying without imparting additional flavors.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it, wrapped tightly, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before assembling the sesame balls.

Are sesame balls gluten-free?

Yes, since they are made with glutinous rice flour, sesame balls are naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

What is the best way to serve sesame balls?

Sesame balls are best enjoyed warm, shortly after frying, to appreciate their crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. They pair well with tea or as a sweet snack.

Conclusion

Sesame Balls with Red Bean Paste offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them a cherished treat in Chinese cuisine. Whether enjoyed during festive celebrations or as a sweet indulgence, these crispy, chewy confections are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can recreate this traditional delicacy in your own kitchen.

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