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When the first hints of spring fill the air, I find myself craving something sweet to celebrate the season’s joyous arrival. That’s when I turn to my beloved recipe for Authentic Chinese Sesame Balls (Jian Dui). The moment these golden orbs crisp up in the hot oil, their delightful crunch gives way to a chewy, sweet surprise in the center—often a rich red bean paste. What I love most is the versatility; you can fill them with whatever tickles your fancy!

This traditional Chinese dessert is not just a treat for special occasions like the Lunar New Year; it’s perfect for any day when you’re in the mood for something indulgent but a little different from the usual fast food. Join me in making these crispy and chewy delights, and take a step away from your usual routine. You might just find a new favorite in your dessert repertoire!

Why will you love Authentic Sesame Balls?

Irresistible Crunch: The crispy outer layer is perfect for satisfying your craving for texture.

Chewy Center: The delightful chewy interior filled with sweet red bean paste offers an addictive sweetness that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible, even for novice cooks.

Customizable Fillings: Whether you prefer traditional red bean paste or are adventurous with peanut butter, you can tailor these balls to your taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them as a snack, dessert, or at your next gathering—your guests will be impressed!

Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat, or enjoy them fresh out of the fryer. Your taste buds will thank you!

Authentic Sesame Balls Ingredients

For the Dough

Glutinous Rice Flour – Essential for achieving that distinctive, chewy texture; regular rice flour can work in a pinch but may alter the outcome.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the dough rise and become light.
Sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to the golden brown hue when fried.
Hot Water – Used to bind ingredients together while making the dough malleable.

For the Filling

Sweet Red Bean Paste – A traditional filling that adds a perfect blend of sweetness; feel free to try alternatives like black sesame paste or peanut butter.

For Coating

Roasted White Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty flavor and delightful crunch; black sesame seeds are a fantastic twist if you’re feeling adventurous.

For Frying

Oil – Essential for deep frying, ensuring your sesame balls achieve that desirable crispy exterior.

These Authentic Sesame Balls are not just a treat, but a customizable way to satisfy your sweet cravings!

How to Make Authentic Sesame Balls

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, baking powder, and sugar. This mix forms the foundation for your chewy dough, ensuring a delightful flavor and texture in every bite.
Add Water Gradually: Slowly pour in hot water while stirring the mixture. Keep mixing until a smooth, pliable dough forms—this will usually take a few minutes of gentle kneading.
Divide the Dough: Once the dough is ready, divide it into equal portions, rolling each into a small ball. Flatten each ball slightly to create a small disc that will hold your delightful filling.
Fill with Sweetness: Place a small spoonful of sweet red bean paste onto each disc, then carefully fold the edges over and roll back into a ball. Make sure the filling is well-sealed inside to avoid leaks while frying.
Coat with Sesame Seeds: Lightly dip each filled ball in water, then roll in roasted white sesame seeds until fully coated. This adds that nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the chewy interior.
Heat the Oil: In a deep pot, heat oil over medium-low heat. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of dough; it should sizzle gently when ready.
Fry to Perfection: Carefully add the sesame balls to the hot oil. Fry until they are golden brown, rotating them gently with a slotted spoon for even cooking, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes.
Drain and Cool: Once golden, transfer the sesame balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving—this will enhance their texture and sweetness.

Optional: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Authentic Sesame Balls?

Delightful sesame balls deserve a feast of flavors to enhance their sweetness and texture.

Jasmine Tea: A fragrant companion, its floral notes complement the nutty crunch of the sesame balls beautifully, creating a serene dining experience. Perfect for winding down after a long day.
Mango Sticky Rice: The creaminess of coconut milk-soaked rice paired with fresh mango makes for a harmonious blend of flavors that pairs well with the chewy texture of the sesame balls.
Coconut Ice Cream: The luscious creaminess of coconut ice cream is an indulgent treat, balancing the light crunch of sesame balls with its rich and tropical flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy, seasonal fruits introduces refreshing notes that brighten the palate, leading to a delightful contrast with the richer taste of sesame balls.
Lychee Martini: This sweet and refreshing cocktail enhances the experience, its fruity notes complementing the savory sweetness of the sesame balls—a perfect pairing for gatherings.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a fun twist, serve with a rich chocolate sauce for dipping, adding a sweet, bold flavor that contrasts delightfully with each crunchy bite.
Green Tea Frappe: A chilled green tea beverage serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, offering a touch of earthy bitterness that enhances the sesame balls’ sweetness without overwhelming them.
Sesame Noodles: As a savory side dish, the nutty, tangy flavors of sesame noodles create a satisfying balance alongside the sweet and chewy balls, making for a well-rounded meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Authentic Sesame Balls are perfect for meal prep; you can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance! Simply prepare the dough as directed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You can also pre-fill the sesame balls with sweet red bean paste and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure maximum freshness, coat them in sesame seeds just before frying. When you’re ready to serve, heat your oil and fry until golden brown. By prepping ahead, you’ll have delicious, homemade sweets ready in no time, offering a delightful break from your usual fast food choices.

Variations & Substitutions for Authentic Sesame Balls

Get ready to unleash your culinary creativity with these exciting variations and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Substitute glutinous rice flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary, but it’s totally worth a try!
Sweet Potato Paste: Instead of red bean paste, use silky sweet potato paste for a naturally sweet twist that adds a vibrant color.
Chocolate Filling: For a decadent option, fill with melted chocolate. It adds a rich, luscious center that chocolate lovers will adore.
Savory Spin: For a savory version, try a mix of minced mushrooms and scallions as a filling—perfect for those craving something different!
Coconut Flakes: Roll your sesame balls in shredded coconut alongside sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and chewiness.

Delve into these flavor variations! Creating mouthwatering combinations can turn an everyday dessert into a family favorite that you’ll cherish for years to come.

How to Store and Freeze Authentic Sesame Balls

Room Temperature: Store leftover sesame balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: Keep sesame balls in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to wrap them in parchment paper to prevent them from becoming too moist.

Freezer: Freeze sesame balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To regain crispiness, reheat frozen sesame balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Enjoy your delicious Authentic Sesame Balls!

Expert Tips for Authentic Sesame Balls

Watch the Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at medium-low heat to avoid burning your sesame balls before they cook through, preserving their delightful texture.
Seal the Filling Well: Make sure to properly seal the dough around the filling to prevent any leaks during frying; this ensures each bite is a sweet surprise.
Rotate Gently: When frying, use a slotted spoon to gently rotate the sesame balls for even cooking and a perfectly golden color, highlighting the appeal of your authentic sesame balls.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, always use fresh glutinous rice flour and high-quality fillings like sweet red bean paste; freshness makes a significant difference.
Try Alternative Fillings: Don’t hesitate to explore different fillings such as black sesame paste or peanut butter if you want something adventurous; the possibilities are endless!

Authentic Sesame Balls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right glutinous rice flour?
The best glutinous rice flour should be fine and white, offering that signature chewy texture for your Authentic Sesame Balls. You can find it in Asian grocery stores or online. If you can only find regular rice flour, it can be used, but be aware that the texture might not be as chewy or sticky.

How should I store leftover sesame balls?
Absolutely! Store leftover sesame balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need them to last a bit longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just remember to wrap them in parchment paper to keep them from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze the sesame balls?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Authentic Sesame Balls, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re crispy again.

What should I do if my sesame balls break open while frying?
No worries! If your sesame balls break open while frying, it could be due to not sealing the filling properly. Ensure that the dough fully encases the filling. You can still enjoy the fried parts as a crunchy treat! If you’re facing spills often, try changing the thickness of your dough layer or check your frying technique to ensure the temperature is just right.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re making these for guests or family members, be mindful of any allergies. The traditional sweet red bean paste is generally safe for most people, but check for soy allergen in some brands. For a gluten-free option, consider confirming that your glutinous rice flour is produced in a gluten-free facility. If you’re accommodating pets, avoid sharing with them, especially if the filling contains sugar or sweeteners!

Can I use fillings other than sweet red bean paste?
Very much so! Feel free to customize your Authentic Sesame Balls with other fillings like black sesame paste, peanut butter, or even sweetened coconut. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level of your chosen filling, and enjoy experimenting with flavors!