Golden Crispy Sesame Balls Filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste

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Introduction

Sesame balls, known as Jian Dui in Chinese, are a beloved traditional dessert in Chinese cuisine. These golden, crispy treats are made from a dough filled with sweet red bean paste and coated in sesame seeds before being deep-fried to perfection. Their chewy interior and crunchy exterior create a delightful contrast, making them a favorite snack or dessert.

Sesame balls are especially popular during festive occasions like Chinese New Year and at dim sum gatherings. They symbolize wealth and good fortune, making them a common offering during celebrations. These bite-sized delights are not only delicious but also carry cultural significance, making them a perfect treat to share with loved ones.

In this blog post, we’ll show you how to perfect Golden Crispy Sesame Balls Filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to indulge in a sweet treat, we’ll guide you step-by-step to ensure they come out perfectly crispy on the outside with a smooth, sweet filling on the inside. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your sesame balls a true crowd-pleaser!

What Are Golden Crispy Sesame Balls?

A Traditional Chinese Dessert

Golden crispy sesame balls, also known as Jian Dui, have a long history in Chinese cuisine, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD). These delicious treats have become a staple in Chinese food culture, particularly during festive celebrations such as Chinese New Year and other traditional events. They are often seen as symbols of good luck and prosperity, making them a popular choice during celebrations and family gatherings. The crispy outer shell and sweet filling make them a comforting and nostalgic dessert that evokes memories of shared meals with loved ones.

Key Ingredients: Sesame Seeds & Red Bean Paste

The heart of every golden crispy sesame ball is its outer coating of sesame seeds, which are toasted and golden-brown after frying, creating a crispy, nutty texture. Sesame seeds are not only delicious but also nutritious, packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals. Their role in the recipe is crucial to achieving the perfect contrast between the soft interior and crispy exterior of the sesame ball.

Inside, the sweet red bean paste is the star of the filling. This paste is made from azuki beans that are cooked, sweetened, and mashed to a smooth consistency. Red bean paste provides a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the crunchy sesame exterior. It’s not just delicious but also a key component in maintaining the traditional flavor profile of the dessert.

Common Variations and Regional Differences

While the classic version of sesame balls features a sweet red bean paste filling, there are several regional variations that offer different twists on the classic recipe. Some regions may opt for other fillings such as lotus seed paste, black sesame paste, or even savory options. For example, lotus seed paste provides a smoother, more delicate filling with a slightly less sweet flavor than red bean paste, offering an interesting alternative for those who prefer a more subtle taste.

Additionally, the texture of the dough may vary slightly depending on regional preferences. In some areas, the dough is made slightly thicker or thinner to create different textures after frying, resulting in varying levels of crispiness. Despite these variations, the underlying concept of golden crispy sesame balls remains the same: a crunchy exterior paired with a flavorful filling, making them a versatile and beloved treat throughout China.

The Best Recipe for Golden Crispy Sesame Balls Filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste

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Key Features:

• Crispy and golden on the outside
• Soft and chewy on the inside with a sweet red bean paste filling
• Perfect for festive occasions like Chinese New Year or dim sum
• Easy-to-follow steps for both beginners and experienced cooks
• Can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert with a cup of Chinese tea

Nutrition Facts (per sesame ball, approximate):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 15 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Calcium: 20 mg
• Iron: 0.5 mg

(Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portions used)

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Step-by-Step Preparation Process

1. Prepare the Dough
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring to form a smooth, soft dough. Add the vegetable oil to make the dough more pliable.
   • Knead the dough for about 5-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes to relax and become easier to handle.
2. Prepare the Red Bean Paste Filling
   • If using store-bought sweet red bean paste, ensure it is at room temperature. If making your own, follow a recipe to cook the azuki beans with sugar until soft, then mash and blend into a smooth paste.
   • Once your paste is ready, portion it into small balls, approximately the size of a marble, to make filling the dough easier.
3. Shape the Sesame Balls
   • After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions, about 1 tablespoon of dough per ball.
   • Flatten each dough portion into a small disc. Place one red bean paste ball in the center and carefully pinch the edges of the dough around the paste to seal it, shaping it into a smooth ball.
   • Roll the dough ball in cornstarch or rice flour to prevent sticking, then coat it evenly in sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure they stick.

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Frying Tips for the Perfect Crispiness

1. Heat the Oil to the Right Temperature
   • In a deep pan or wok, heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the sesame balls. The oil should be heated to around 350°F (175°C). A good test is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil — if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.
2. Fry in Small Batches
   • Carefully drop a few sesame balls into the hot oil at a time, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches ensures the oil temperature remains stable, helping the sesame balls cook evenly.
3. Maintain the Right Frying Technique
   • Gently stir the sesame balls in the oil using a slotted spoon, turning them over to fry all sides. This ensures the balls achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and warm.
4. Monitor Frying Time
   • Fry the sesame balls for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Don’t rush the process — frying them at the right temperature is key to achieving a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet filling.
5. Drain Excess Oil
   • Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the sesame balls from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve the perfect Golden Crispy Sesame Balls filled with sweet red bean paste. The crispy sesame coating, combined with the smooth, sweet filling, will be irresistible and leave everyone craving more!

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How to Make the Perfect Red Bean Paste for Filling

Cooking the Red Bean Paste

1. Boil the Beans:
   • Rinse the azuki beans thoroughly under cold water. In a large pot, add the beans and water, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes until the beans are soft and tender.
2. Drain the Beans:
   • Once the beans are cooked, drain the water and transfer the beans to a bowl. You can reserve a bit of the cooking liquid to adjust the texture later.
3. Mash the Beans:
   • If you prefer a smooth paste, mash the cooked beans with a potato masher, or use a blender or food processor for a finer consistency. Add a little cooking liquid if the paste feels too thick.
4. Sweeten the Paste:
   • Return the mashed beans to the pot, add the sugar, and stir constantly over low heat. The goal is to achieve a thick, smooth consistency. Continue stirring until the paste becomes glossy and thickens to a play-dough-like texture, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Cool and Portion:
   • Once the paste is at the desired consistency, remove it from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Portion it into small balls for easy filling of your sesame balls.

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Alternative Fillings

While sweet red bean paste is the traditional filling for golden crispy sesame balls, there are several other popular fillings you can use to switch things up:

• Lotus Seed Paste: A smooth, sweet paste made from lotus seeds, sugar, and a bit of oil. It’s often used in mooncakes and offers a slightly less sweet flavor than red bean paste.
• Black Sesame Paste: A rich, nutty filling made from black sesame seeds, sugar, and oil. It has a deeper, earthier flavor compared to red bean paste.
• Peanut Paste: A crunchy, sweet paste made from ground peanuts, sugar, and sometimes a bit of honey. This filling offers a delightful texture contrast to the smoothness of the sesame ball.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sesame Balls

Overcooking the Filling

• Why it matters: Overcooking the sweet red bean paste can cause it to become too dry and lose its smooth, spreadable texture. If it becomes too thick, it will be difficult to work with when filling the dough, and the filling might not have that perfect creamy consistency.
• Solution: Cook the red bean paste on low heat, and stir continuously to ensure the paste doesn’t dry out. Remove it from the heat once it reaches the ideal thick yet soft consistency.

Incorrect Frying Temperature

• Why it matters: The temperature of the frying oil is critical in achieving the perfect crispy texture. If the oil is too hot, the outside may burn before the dough cooks fully. If it’s too cold, the sesame balls will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Solution: Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). A good way to test is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil — if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready.

Improper Dough Consistency

• Why it matters: The dough must be soft and pliable but not too sticky. If the dough is too dry, it won’t form well around the filling; if it’s too sticky, it will be difficult to handle and shape.
• Solution: Gradually add warm water while mixing the dough until it becomes smooth and soft. You can test the dough by rolling it into a ball — it should hold its shape without being too sticky or too crumbly.

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Enjoying Golden Crispy Sesame Balls & Serving Suggestions

Best Ways to Serve Sesame Balls

Golden Crispy Sesame Balls can be served as a dessert or snack, perfect for any occasion. They are especially popular during dim sum or at festive gatherings like Chinese New Year. Serve them warm, straight from the fryer, so that guests can enjoy the crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior. These sesame balls make a great addition to a dessert table or as a treat alongside other Chinese pastries.

Pairing with Tea or Other Treats

Sesame balls pair wonderfully with Chinese tea such as oolong, jasmine, or pu-erh. The bitterness of the tea complements the sweetness of the sesame balls. For an extra treat, you can serve them alongside other Chinese desserts like egg tarts or custard buns for a complete dim sum experience.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover golden crispy sesame balls, it’s best to store them at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. To maintain their crispiness, place them on a wire rack to avoid moisture buildup. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them before frying. Simply freeze the shaped dough balls, then fry them straight from the freezer when ready to enjoy. This ensures that they stay crispy and fresh, even after freezing.

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Conclusion

In this post, we’ve walked through the steps to create the perfect Golden Crispy Sesame Balls Filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste. From preparing the smooth and sweet red bean paste to mastering the dough consistency and frying tips, each element is crucial in achieving that crispy, golden exterior and soft, flavorful filling. The key to perfection lies in the balance — whether it’s getting the right oil temperature for frying or ensuring the filling doesn’t become too dry, every detail matters.

Now that you have all the tools and tips, it’s time to try this delicious dessert in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to take a picture of your beautifully golden sesame balls and share your creations with us using the hashtag #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see how you bring this classic Chinese treat to life!

Happy cooking, and enjoy your sesame ball journey!