Sesame Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sesame balls offer an irresistible mix of textures: a crunchy outer sesame shell giving way to a soft, chewy interior. Simple ingredients and minimal prep make them a satisfying, nostalgic treat that’s fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat.

Ingredients

A little less than ½ cup (110 ml) water
¼ cup (50 g) white sugar
1 ¼ cup (130 g) glutinous rice flour
1 tsp (4 g) neutral oil
⅓ cup (48 g) white sesame seeds
Neutral oil, for frying
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the water and sugar, stirring until fully dissolved.
2. Transfer the sugar water into a bowl containing the glutinous rice flour, stirring until a lumpy dough forms. Add the neutral oil and knead by hand until a smooth, firm, and elastic dough is achieved.
3. Divide the dough into 6–8 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
4. Flatten each dough ball into a small disc. Optionally add a small filling like red bean or lotus paste, then wrap and roll back into a smooth ball.
5. Moisten each ball lightly (e.g., roll in damp hands or dip in water), then coat evenly with sesame seeds.
6. Heat neutral frying oil in a deep pan to around 300 °F (150 °C). Fry a few at a time, gently stirring to roll them in the oil for even cooking. Once they begin to float and lightly expand after about 10 minutes raise oil temperature slightly, and continue frying until golden and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and let cool briefly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Yields 6–8 sesame balls, depending on how large you make each portion—dividing into 8 gives a thinner, crispier exterior, while 6 creates a slightly thicker dough shell .
Prep time: ~15 minutes (including dough mixing and shaping) .
Resting (if filled): Let dough rest 5 minutes before frying (optional).
Fry time: Approximately 10 minutes initial, plus a few extra minutes to brown.

Storage/Reheating

Sesame balls are best enjoyed fresh same-day consumption is highly recommended for ideal texture .If you must store, refrigeration up to 1–2 days is acceptable, but they soften. Reheat briefly in a toaster oven or air fryer to help restore crispiness.

FAQs

What if I don’t have glutinous rice flour can I use regular rice flour?

No. Regular rice flour lacks the sticky, chewy quality needed. Only glutinous rice flour yields the classic texture .

Can I make them without fillings?

Yes, plain sesame balls without fillings are common and easier to fry evenly, with less risk of bursting .

Why are my sesame balls bursting in the oil?

Bursting can result from oil that’s too hot or dough that’s unequally thick. Maintaining moderate oil temp and ensuring even dough thickness helps prevent this .

What’s the ideal fryer temperature?

Keep the oil around 300 °F (150 °C) during most of the fry, then increase it slightly toward the end to develop color and crispness .

Can I air-fry these sesame balls?

While possible, air frying usually results in a drier, less satisfying texture compared to deep-frying .

How should the dough feel before frying?

It should feel smooth, elastic, and firm, not saggy or too dry. Add flour or water in tiny adjustments to reach the right consistency .

Can I refrigerate dough ahead of time?

It’s best to fry immediately after forming to prevent drying, which can lead to cracks or bursting during frying .

Why are some balls pale after frying?

Paleness often comes from oil that’s not hot enough; ensure initial even cooking before raising heat for browning.

Can I reuse the frying oil?

Yes oil can be strained and reused, but make sure it hasn’t carried strong flavors from previous frying .

How can I get more sesame seeds to stick?

Moisten balls lightly before coating and roll thoroughly so the seeds adhere uniformly .

Conclusion

These sesame balls deliver a timeless, irresistible bite golden, crispy exteriors and chewy hearts, perfect for tea time or dessert. With just a few pantry staples, you can enjoy these satisfying treats. Just fry them carefully and savor them fresh!

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