Cantonese Cuisine · tested Chinese home cooking
Sesame Balls (Jian Dui) Recipe
煎堆 Jiān Duī
Golden, chewy sesame balls with a sweet red bean filling – a classic dim sum dessert. The exterior is delightfully crispy and nutty from the sesame seeds, while the inside is soft and sweet. This version is written for Western home kitchens, with supermarket-friendly measurements, practical substitutions, and clear visual steps.
Why this recipe works
This recipe keeps the flavor profile recognizable while making the workflow realistic for American and European kitchens. The ingredient list prioritizes items you can buy at mainstream grocery stores, with Asian-market upgrades where they truly matter.
Shopping notes for Western cooks
Most ingredients are easy to find at major U.S. and European supermarkets. For pantry items like Shaoxing wine, Chinkiang black vinegar, doubanjiang, Sichuan peppercorns, dried chilies, oyster sauce, and dark soy sauce, check an Asian market or order online. Use dry sherry for Shaoxing wine, balsamic plus rice vinegar for black vinegar, and tamari for a gluten-aware soy sauce swap when needed.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup white sesame seeds
- Oil for deep frying
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Mix glutinous rice flour, baking powder, and sugar
Mix glutinous rice flour, baking powder, and sugar. Gradually add warm water and knead into a smooth, pliable dough.
Step 2
Divide the red bean paste into 12 small balls (about 1…
Divide the red bean paste into 12 small balls (about 1 tsp each).
Step 3
Divide dough into 12 pieces
Divide dough into 12 pieces. Flatten each piece, place a red bean ball in the center, and wrap the dough around it. Seal completely.
Step 4
Roll each ball in sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere
Roll each ball in sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere. Moisten slightly if needed.
Step 5
Heat oil to 140°C (285°F) – medium low
Heat oil to 140°C (285°F) – medium low. Gently fry sesame balls for 8-10 minutes, rolling them constantly. They will float and expand.
Step 6
Increase oil temperature to 180°C (350°F) and fry for…
Increase oil temperature to 180°C (350°F) and fry for 1-2 more minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cook’s notes
- The low temperature initial fry is crucial – high heat will brown the sesame seeds before the inside is cooked
- Roll the balls constantly while frying for even expansion and color
- The balls will expand significantly – don't overcrowd the pot
- For a twist, substitute lotus seed paste or peanut butter for the red bean filling
Common questions
Can I make Sesame Balls (Jian Dui) less spicy?
Yes. Reduce dried chilies, chili paste, or Sichuan peppercorns first, then add heat back at the table with chili oil.
What should I serve with it?
Steamed jasmine rice, a crisp cucumber salad, or a simple green vegetable make the meal feel complete without extra work.