Imagine biting into a golden, crispy sphere that crackles with toasted sesame seeds and reveals a luscious, sweet red bean filling that melts in your mouth. The Jien Duy, a classic Chinese deep-fried sesame seed ball, is not just a dessert—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular treat that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of traditional Chinese bakeries. Get ready to unlock the secrets of this addictive delicacy that promises crunch, sweetness, and pure gastronomic joy!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup red bean paste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add water while stirring to create a smooth, pliable dough. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Use your hands to flatten each portion into a small disc about 3 inches in diameter.
- Place a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center of each dough disc. Carefully fold and seal the edges, creating a smooth ball shape with the filling completely enclosed.
- Pour sesame seeds onto a flat plate. Gently roll each filled dough ball in the sesame seeds, ensuring they are completely and evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable or peanut oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature.
- Carefully lower the sesame-coated balls into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes, gently turning them to ensure even golden-brown coloration.
- Remove the fried sesame balls using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Let the sesame balls cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, with a crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior.
Tips
- Dough Consistency is Key: Ensure your glutinous rice flour dough is smooth and elastic. Knead thoroughly and let it rest to develop the right texture.
- Temperature Matters: Use a cooking thermometer to maintain oil at exactly 350°F (175°C). Too hot, and the outside burns; too cool, and the balls absorb excess oil.
- Sesame Seed Coating Technique: Roll balls gently but firmly in sesame seeds, pressing lightly to help them adhere completely.
- Batch Frying: Don't overcrowd the pot. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Filling Distribution: Seal the red bean paste completely within the dough to prevent leaking during frying.
- Drain Properly: Use paper towels to remove excess oil and prevent soggy bottoms.
- Serve Immediately: Jien Duy is best enjoyed warm, within 15-20 minutes of frying, when the exterior is at its crispiest.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
