Crispy Sesame Balls

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Vietnamese Bánh rán to Anhui cuisine, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of Anhui. Instead of using the traditional red bean or lotus seed paste filling, we will be using a sweet black sesame paste filling, which is a popular ingredient in Anhui cuisine. Additionally, we will be rolling the balls in black sesame seeds instead of white sesame seeds, adding a distinct nutty flavor and enhancing the visual appeal of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Bánh rán, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (300g) glutinous rice flour 2 cups (300g) glutinous rice flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) sweet black sesame paste 1 cup (200g) sweet black sesame paste
• 1/2 cup (80g) black sesame seeds 1/2 cup (80g) black sesame seeds
• Vegetable oil, for deep-frying Vegetable oil, for deep-frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.01g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and water. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
3. 3.
   Flatten each ball with your palm and place a teaspoon of sweet black sesame paste in the center.
4. 4.
   Carefully seal the dough around the filling, ensuring there are no gaps.
5. 5.
   Roll each ball in black sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure they adhere to the dough.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat.
7. 7.
   Carefully place the sesame balls into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
8. 8.
   Remove the balls from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
9. 9.
   Serve the Crispy Sesame Balls warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Ensure that you are using glutinous rice flour specifically, as regular rice flour will not yield the desired texture.
• Sweet black sesame paste — If you cannot find sweet black sesame paste, you can make your own by blending black sesame seeds with sugar until a smooth paste forms.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the sesame balls are sealed properly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
• Adjust the sweetness of the filling according to your preference by adding more or less sugar to the black sesame paste.
• Serve the Crispy Sesame Balls immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different fillings such as red bean paste or lotus seed paste for variety.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can also bake the sesame balls in the oven instead of deep-frying them.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Sesame Balls as a delightful dessert or snack. They are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the fryer. Pair them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a perfect combination of flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Crispy Sesame Balls on a serving platter, allowing their golden color and sesame seed coating to shine. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of elegance.