Jian Dui (Sesame Balls) 煎堆

Jian Dui are hollow, fried glutinous rice balls coated in sesame seeds, crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, often filled with a sweet paste. A popular Chinese New Year snack.

Nutrition (per serving)

Ingredients

• 250g glutinous rice flour
• 60g granulated sugar
• 180ml boiling water (approx.)
• 500ml vegetable oil (for deep frying)
• 100g white sesame seeds
• 100g sweet red bean paste (optional)

Steps

1. In a large bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and granulated sugar. Gradually add boiling water, stirring with chopsticks until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 10-12 equal portions. If using filling, flatten each portion into a disc, place sweet red bean paste in the center, and carefully wrap the dough around the paste, sealing it tightly to form a ball. If not using filling, simply roll each portion into a smooth ball.
4. Lightly wet the surface of each ball with a little water. Roll each ball in white sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or wok to 150°C (300°F). Carefully place a few Jian Dui into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, gently pressing and rolling them with a slotted spoon to help them expand and puff up. Maintain a consistent low-medium heat.
6. Increase heat slightly to medium-high (170°C/340°F) and continue frying until golden brown and crispy, another 3-5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm.

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