The aroma of freshly fried dough wafting through the kitchen transported me back to bustling street markets in Canton, where the sound of sizzling sesame balls fills the air. These delights, with their crispy exterior and chewy center, are an irresistible treat that anyone can make at home. This recipe for crispy Cantonese Sesame Balls with red bean filling shares the magic of Chinese cuisine while allowing you to skip fast food in favor of an authentic dessert that’s worth every bite. Not only is it straightforward to whip up, but it’s also the perfect crowd-pleaser, making you the star of any gathering. Ready to embrace the thrill of homemade desserts and indulge your taste buds? Let’s dive into the world of sesame balls together!
Why You’ll Crave Sesame Balls?
Indulgent Flavor: These crispy sesame balls combine the nutty crunch of sesame seeds with the sweet, smooth red bean filling for a mouthwatering experience.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe demystifies Chinese dessert making, letting you enjoy homemade goodness without the hassle.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! Switch the red bean paste with black sesame or even chocolate for a fun twist.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these treats make you the hit of any party. Looking for more treats? Check out Tiramisu Balls Bake for another delightful dessert!
A Crunchy Delight: The contrast between the crispy shell and chewy interior creates a satisfying texture in every bite, reminiscent of your favorite dumplings.
Cultural Experience: Bring a taste of Cantonese cuisine to your kitchen and create delightful memories with loved ones.
Sesame Balls Ingredients
• Get ready to create delightful flavors!
For the Dough
- Glutinous Rice Flour – This special flour gives your sesame balls their unique chewy texture; don’t substitute it!
- Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness; feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
- Cold Water – Helps activate the flour and form the dough; keep it cold for the best results.
For the Filling
- Red Bean Paste – Traditional sweet filling that adds depth of flavor; swap with black sesame paste for a different spin.
For the Coating
- Raw Sesame Seeds – These provide a crunchy outer layer; substitute with toasted sesame seeds for an added nutty flavor.
Optional Equipment
- Cooking Oil – You’ll need about 2 inches of oil for frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point for the best frying experience.
Get ready to make these crispy delights—your kitchen is about to be filled with mouthwatering aromas!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sesame Balls
Step 1: Prepare Sugar Water
In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of sugar with ¾ cup of cold water. Heat over medium-low until the sugar completely dissolves, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture comes to a gentle boil, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. This sweet sugar water will be essential for creating the dough for your sesame balls.
Step 2: Make Dough
In a mixing bowl, add 2 cups of glutinous rice flour and pour in the cooled sugar water. Stir well with a wooden spoon until a smooth, pliable dough forms, ensuring there are no lumps. After mixing, cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let the dough rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period helps to enhance the chewy texture of the sesame balls.
Step 3: Form Balls
After the resting time, divide the dough into six equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it in your palm to create a small disc. Place about 1 to 2 teaspoons of red bean paste in the center, then carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it tightly. Roll the filled dough between your palms to shape it into a smooth ball. Repeat for the remaining portions and coat each ball generously with raw sesame seeds.
Step 4: Fry
In a deep frying pan, heat about 2 inches of cooking oil to 265°F (130°C). Carefully place a few sesame balls into the hot oil, allowing them to sink initially. After about 3 minutes, gently flip the balls using a metal spider or tongs to ensure even cooking. Continue frying for 6 to 10 minutes until the balls begin to float and turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep rotating them frequently to achieve an even color and crispy texture.
Step 5: Drain
Once the sesame balls are cooked to a golden perfection, use the metal spider to remove them from the oil. Place the fried sesame balls on a wire rack to drain excess oil and cool slightly. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving. These crispy Cantonese sesame balls are best enjoyed warm, revealing their chewy interior and delightful filling!
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Balls
Room Temperature: Enjoy your sesame balls warm for the best flavor. They are at their finest right after frying but can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a microwave or toaster oven to restore some crunch.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the formed but un-fried sesame balls on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Fry from frozen without thawing—just adjust frying time as needed for perfect results.
Reheating: To reinvigorate refrigerated or frozen sesame balls, reheat them in a hot oil bath for a few minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy the delightful contrast of crunchy skin and chewy interior!
What to Serve with Crispy Cantonese Sesame Balls?
Warm, inviting, and oh-so-decadent, these delightful bites shine even brighter when paired with perfect accompaniments.
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Jasmine Tea: The fragrant brew complements the sweetness of sesame balls, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering it.
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Fried Bananas: Their soft, caramelized exterior contrasts beautifully with the crispy sesame balls, offering an irresistible tropical touch.
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Mango Pudding: This creamy dessert adds a refreshing sweetness, balancing the nuttiness of the sesame filling for a well-rounded meal.
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Fruit Salad: A bowl of vibrant, juicy fruits provides a refreshing palate cleanser that brightens up the rich flavors of the sesame balls.
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Coconut Milk: Drizzle some creamy coconut milk over your sesame balls for an exotic twist that intensifies flavor while adding a soothing richness.
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Lychee Smoothie: Blend this sweet fruit into a smoothie to provide a refreshing contrast in texture and a burst of floral sweetness to each bite.
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Steamed Buns: Soft, fluffy buns can be a delightful addition to your meal, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that compliments the sesame balls.
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Almond Cookies: Their crispiness and mild sweetness echo the sesame notes, making them a fabulous treat to share alongside this traditional dessert.
Indulge in these pairings, and elevate your dining experience with the unique flavors and textures they bring to the table!
Expert Tips for Sesame Balls
- Consistent Temperature: Maintain a frying temperature between 250-265°F to avoid bursting. Too high can lead to an uneven texture.
- Dough Textures: Ensure your dough is completely smooth before resting. Any lumps can create weak points, causing the sesame balls to break while frying.
- Gentle Handling: Use a delicate touch when sealing the dough around the filling. Overwhelming pressure can result in bursting during the frying process.
- Fry in Batches: Fry a few sesame balls at a time to prevent overcrowding in the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy balls.
- Cooling Time: Allow the fried sesame balls to cool slightly on a wire rack to achieve the perfect balance of crunchiness and chewiness.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy Cantonese sesame balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and fill the sesame balls up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply form the balls and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps maintain their shape and quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat the oil and fry the sesame balls directly from the fridge; there’s no need to thaw! Keep in mind that they are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. Enjoy the time-saving benefits without sacrificing flavor!
Sesame Balls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tweak these sesame balls to cater to your taste and dietary preferences!
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Different Fillings: Swap red bean paste for black sesame paste, lotus seed paste, or sweetened coconut to personalize each bite.
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Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of traditional fillings, providing a nut-free alternative that retains great flavor.
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Gluten-Free Twist: Substitute the glutinous rice flour with a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking; ensure it contains xanthan gum for texture.
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Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for a warm flavor boost that complements the sweetness of the filling.
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Savory Version: Try filling your sesame balls with a mixture of sautéed garlic, vegetables, and ground chicken or tofu for a savory treat—perfect for adventurous eaters!
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Toasted Sesame Seeds: For an even richer flavor, use toasted sesame seeds for the coating, adding an extra layer of nuttiness and depth.
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Chocolate Lovers Unite: Fill your sesame balls with melted chocolate or chocolate ganache for an indulgent dessert that will be a hit at family gatherings.
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Fusion Flavor: Add a dash of matcha powder to the dough for a unique twist. The earthy taste of matcha pairs beautifully with sweet fillings.
Every variation opens a new door to delightful tastes—try pairing them with a warm cup of tea for a delightful afternoon bite, and if you’re in the mood for more treat ideas, check out these Pecan Pie Balls or a fun take on meat with Pot Turkey Meatballs. Let your culinary creativity shine!
Sesame Balls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right glutinous rice flour?
When looking for glutinous rice flour, choose a fine powder that is labeled specifically as “glutinous” or “sweet rice flour.” It’s important to avoid regular rice flour as it won’t give the desired chewy texture. You can often find it in Asian grocery stores or in the international aisle of larger supermarkets.
What’s the best way to store leftover sesame balls?
To store leftover sesame balls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they can also be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them in a microwave or toaster oven to regain their original crunch!
Can I freeze sesame balls?
Absolutely! To freeze sesame balls, shape them but do not fry. Place the formed balls on a baking tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply fry them from frozen, adjusting the frying time as needed for a crispy finish.
Why do my sesame balls burst while frying?
Bursting can occur for several reasons: if the oil is too hot or if the dough has weak spots. It’s crucial to maintain a frying temperature between 250-265°F. Ensure your dough is smooth before resting, and handle the filling with a gentle touch to avoid pressure points that could lead to bursting.
Are sesame balls safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Sesame balls contain gluten due to the glutinous rice flour, so they are not suitable for those with gluten intolerance. However, they are naturally free from common allergens like dairy and nuts. Always check the specific brands of fillings and ingredients before serving to accommodate dietary needs.
Can I use different fillings in sesame balls?
Certainly! The classic red bean paste is a traditional favorite, but feel free to experiment. Black sesame paste, lotus seed paste, or even sweetened coconut can provide delightful variations. Just remember that certain fillings might need slight adjustments in quantity to avoid over-filling or bursting during frying.
Perfectly Crispy Sesame Balls: A Taste of Cantonese Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup of sugar with ¾ cup of cold water. Heat over medium-low until the sugar completely dissolves, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, add 2 cups of glutinous rice flour and pour in the cooled sugar water. Stir until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
- Divide the dough into six equal portions. Flatten one portion and place 1 to 2 teaspoons of red bean paste in the center. Fold the dough edges over the filling, seal tightly, and roll into a ball.
- Heat about 2 inches of cooking oil to 265°F (130°C). Fry a few sesame balls at a time for 6 to 10 minutes, flipping occasionally until they are golden brown.
- Remove the fried sesame balls using a metal spider and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let cool slightly before serving.