Crunchy Sesame Ball (Jian Dui) Recipe
Ah, the delightful crunch of Jian Dui, or Sesame Balls! 🍡 This dish holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of childhood visits to bustling street markets, where the irresistible aroma of fresh sesame balls would lure you in.
As I watched the vendors skillfully craft these golden treats, I knew one day I would make them myself.
Today, I invite you to join me on this journey of creating a crispy, sweet, and utterly satisfying dessert.
Let’s dive into the world of flavors and textures, where every bite tells a story!
Tools Table
| Tool | Purpose | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Supor Pan | Frying sesame balls | Supor Pan |
| Neoflam Pan | Alternative frying option | Neoflam Pan |
| Tanita Scales | Weighing ingredients | Tanita Scale |
| Silicone Brush | Glazing and oiling | Silicone Brush |
| Mung Beans | Filling for the sesame ball | Mung Beans |
| Yellow Sesame Seeds | Coating for crunchiness | Sesame Seeds |
| Soybean Oil | Frying oil | Soybean Oil |
Prep Time
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (Including prep and cooking time)
Ingredients
- 60g Mung Beans (soaked in water)
- Water (for boiling, amount as needed)
- 60g Sugar
- 10g Vegetable Oil
- 30g Steamed Potatoes (mashed)
- 100g Glutinous Rice Flour
- 70ml Warm Water
- 5g Vegetable Oil (for dough)
- Sesame Seeds (as needed for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mung Beans:
- Soak 60g of mung beans in water overnight.
- Drain and rinse them, then boil in fresh water for about 20 minutes, or until soft.
- Add a pinch of salt and 60g of sugar, then mash the beans with 10g of vegetable oil until smooth. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Dough:
- In a bowl, combine 100g of glutinous rice flour with 30g of mashed potatoes and 70ml of warm water.
- Knead well until you form a soft dough. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Balls:
- Take a small piece of dough (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten it in your palm.
- Place a spoonful of the mung bean filling in the center and carefully wrap the dough around it, ensuring it’s sealed tightly. Roll gently into a ball.
- Coat the Balls:
- Dip each ball into a bit of water and roll it in sesame seeds until fully coated.
- Fry the Sesame Balls:
- In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil for deep frying (about 2 inches deep).
- Carefully place the sesame balls into the hot oil, cooking them in batches. Fry for about 8-10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and float to the surface.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on a paper towel.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Your crunchy sesame balls are ready to be enjoyed warm or at room temperature!
Food Storage
To store leftover sesame balls, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can lose their crunch, so consider reheating them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!
Pro Tips
- Filling Variations: Try using sweet red bean paste or create a savory filling with minced meat for a twist!
- Healthier Alternative: For a healthier version, consider baking the sesame balls instead of frying. Brush them with oil and bake at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes.
- Infuse Flavor: Add a few drops of vanilla extract or coconut milk to the dough for an extra layer of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 3g |
FAQs
- Can I freeze sesame balls?
- Yes! Freeze them in a single layer and transfer to an airtight container. Thaw before frying.
- Why did my sesame balls burst while frying?
- Ensure they are sealed properly. If the dough is too thin, they may burst.
- Can I use regular rice flour instead of glutinous rice flour?
- Glutinous rice flour is essential for that chewy texture; regular rice flour won’t give the same results.
- What oil is best for frying?
- Vegetable oil is commonly used, but peanut or canola oil also works well due to their high smoke points.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare the dough and filling in advance, and assemble and fry just before serving.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – an heirloom recipe that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also connects you with a wonderful culture and tradition.
I encourage you to give these Crunchy Sesame Balls a try!
Cooking is about love, exploration, and crafting memories, and I hope this dish finds a special place in your heart as it has in mine. Happy cooking! 🥢💖