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Epicurious

Sesame Balls with Drunken Fig Filling

3.5

(6)

Image may contain Confectionery Food Sweets Sesame Seasoning and Bread
Sesame Balls with Drunken Fig FillingPate Eng

Sesame balls are classic dim sum. In the yum chat (dim-sum dining) culture, these sticky-sweet treats are eaten between savory bites throughout the meal. Traditionally, the dough is made only with glutinous rice flour, which is quite sticky and will leave you searching for a toothpick. I add taro to make the dough more tender, more tasty, and a lovely shade of lavender. I substitute flavorful figs for the traditional lotus seed and red bean fillings.

CHEF'S TIPS: In Chinese cooking, sesame seeds are never deeply browned— their white color symbolizes purity. Be sure to start with untoasted white sesame seeds for a light golden color when the balls are done.

Most fried desserts are best eaten right away, but these stay delicious and crisp even at room temperature.

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