Air Fryer Sesame Balls Recipe: Your Favorite Chinese Snack, Made Healthier

Introduction

Sesame balls are a beloved Chinese snack enjoyed by many around the world. Traditionally deep-fried, these delightful treats have a crispy exterior and soft, sweet filling that make them irresistible. However, deep-frying adds unnecessary oil and calories, which is where the air fryer comes in. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make air fryer sesame balls—your favorite snack, but healthier and just as delicious!

What Are Sesame Balls? A Classic Chinese Snack

Sesame balls, or “Jian Dui” in Chinese, are a traditional dessert that has been a staple of Chinese cuisine for centuries. These bite-sized treats are made from glutinous rice flour, stuffed with sweet red bean paste, and rolled in sesame seeds before being fried. The exterior is golden and crispy, while the inside is chewy and sweet.

The beauty of sesame balls lies in their simplicity, and they’re a favorite during Chinese New Year celebrations and special occasions. Whether you’ve had them at a dim sum restaurant or made them at home, you can appreciate the crunch and sweetness packed into each bite.

Why Make Air Fryer Sesame Balls? Healthier and Easier

One of the best reasons to try making sesame balls in an air fryer is the health benefits. Traditional sesame balls are deep-fried, which means they absorb a lot of oil, adding unwanted calories and fat. Air frying, however, requires very little oil, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture.

The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy outer layer, similar to deep frying, but without the mess or excess oil. This method is also much faster and cleaner, which is ideal for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy a Chinese snack without the hassle of frying.

Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Sesame Balls Recipe

To make this healthier version of sesame balls, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste (or mung bean paste)
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• Oil spray (for air frying)

Optional Substitutes:

• You can swap red bean paste with mung bean paste if you prefer a different filling.
• For a lower sugar version, reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Sesame Balls

Now, let’s dive into how you can make your own air fryer sesame balls. It’s simple, quick, and fun!

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of glutinous rice flour and 1/4 cup of sugar.
• Gradually add 1/2 cup of water while mixing to form a smooth dough. The dough should be soft but not too sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more rice flour until it reaches the right consistency.

2. Shape and Fill the Sesame Balls

• Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a tablespoon.
• Flatten each portion into a small disc with your hands.
• Place a teaspoon of sweet red bean paste in the center of each disc, then fold the dough around the paste and pinch the edges to seal it.
• Roll each ball between your hands to smooth it out.

3. Coat with Sesame Seeds

• Roll each dough ball in sesame seeds until fully coated. Press gently to ensure the seeds stick well to the surface of the dough.

4. Air Fry to Perfection

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a small amount of oil.
• Place the sesame balls in the basket, making sure they aren’t touching each other.
• Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the sesame balls are golden and crispy on the outside.

Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Sesame Balls

Here are a few tips to ensure your sesame balls turn out perfectly every time:

1. Prevent Soggy Sesame Balls

• If you find that the balls become too soggy, it could be from too much moisture in the dough. Be sure to roll the dough balls tightly to seal the edges completely, and avoid over-wetting the dough.

2. Achieve the Perfect Crispiness

• For an extra-crispy texture, lightly spray the sesame balls with a thin coat of oil before air frying. This will help them crisp up without excess grease.

3. Storing Leftover Sesame Balls

• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F to regain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Making sesame balls in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone who loves this delicious Chinese snack but wants a healthier option. By reducing the oil, you still get the same crispy exterior and chewy interior, without all the extra calories and fat. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is an easy and fun way to enjoy a favorite treat in a healthier way.

Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments! Have fun making your own air fryer sesame balls and enjoy the deliciousness, guilt-free!