How to make Sesame Balls

Why cooks start here

Sesame Balls is cooked the way dim sum carts cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a chinese family cook actually puts it on the table.

Sesame Balls, known as 'Jian Dui' in Mandarin, are a beloved staple at dim sum gatherings, where the clatter of carts signals a feast of small plates. This home version captures the essence of those bustling mornings, crafted with the same care and precision as those found in the finest dim sum parlors. Traditionally enjoyed during Lunar New Year for their golden hue and round shape, they symbolize prosperity and unity. Biting into a Sesame Ball reveals a thin, crispy shell that gives way to a chewy, sweet interior of red bean paste. The nutty aroma of toasted sesame seeds envelops each bite, creating a delightful contrast with the mild sweetness. The experience is both textural and flavorful, perfect for sharing and savoring with tea.