Crispy Sesame Balls with Red-Bean Filling

Golden fried glutinous-rice spheres crackle under white sesame and hide a sweet red-bean heart. They echo Broth Along Imperial Way, where sesame oil braided Kaifeng’s night markets after the curfew drums lost.

Serves 4

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 1 cup red bean paste
• 1 cup white sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cups vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup warm water

Instructions

1. 1Mix glutinous rice flour, sugar, sesame oil, and boiling water until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Add a little warm water if needed. Let rest 10 minutes.
2. 2Divide dough into 16 equal pieces. Flatten each into a disc, place a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center, and seal tightly into a smooth ball.
3. 3Roll each ball in white sesame seeds, pressing gently so seeds adhere evenly.
4. 4Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 325°F. Fry sesame balls in batches for 6-8 minutes, turning often, until golden, crispy, and floating. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.