There’s something truly delightful about the warm, nutty crunch of sesame seeds embracing the sweet softness of sweet potato. I first fell in love with these Sweet Potato Sesame Balls while exploring a local market where a charming vendor shared his own twist on this traditional treat. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making it a canvas for creativity in the kitchen.
Picture yourself enjoying a cozy afternoon when the scent of roasted sweet potatoes fills your home, inviting you to pause and indulge. These little morsels are not just a tasty snack; they are also incredibly easy to make and healthy, satisfying that urge to nibble without the guilt of fast food.
Perfect for impressing guests at a gathering or serving as a delightful treat for yourself, these Sweet Potato Sesame Balls are adaptable to your taste. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a simple afternoon snack, they effortlessly blend comfort and sophistication. Let’s dive into the recipe and transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth and flavor!
Why are Sweet Potato Sesame Balls so special?
Delightful crunch: The crispy sesame coating pairs perfectly with the soft, sweet center, creating a heavenly texture.
Healthier indulgence: Made with wholesome ingredients, these balls are a guilt-free pleasure that beats fast food any day.
Quick and easy: With a 15-minute prep time, you can whip them up in no time!
Versatile serving options: Serve as a snack, appetizer, or dessert—the choice is yours!
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your guests with these unique treats at your next gathering; they won’t be able to resist!
Dive into this mouthwatering recipe and find more delicious snacks to make your mealtimes exciting!
Sweet Potato Sesame Balls Ingredients
• All you need to create these delightful treats!
For the Dough
- Sweet potato – 260 g – the star ingredient that provides a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture.
- Glutinous rice flour – 110 g, plus 1 tablespoon for coating – gives the balls their chewy consistency; don’t substitute with regular flour for best results.
- Sugar – 2 tablespoons, or to taste – adds just the right sweetness to complement the sweet potato.
For the Coating
- Sesame seeds – 4 tablespoons, raw or toasted – these add a nutty flavor and delightful crunch to your Sweet Potato Sesame Balls.
For Cooking
- Cooking oil – 600 ml – make sure to use enough oil for deep frying; peanut or vegetable oil works beautifully.
Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of these Sweet Potato Sesame Balls!
How to Make Sweet Potato Sesame Balls
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Pierce and Bake: Start by piercing the sweet potato several times with a fork or knife. Bake it in a preheated oven at 200°C / 400°F / Gas 6 for 45 – 60 minutes. Allow it to cool before peeling.
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Mash and Combine: Mash the sweet potato until smooth. Gradually add in the glutinous rice flour and sugar while mixing with a spatula. Then, using your hands, bring it all together to form a soft and pliable dough.
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Divide and Roll: Divide your dough into 12 equal parts. Roll each piece gently into a ball; this will form the base of your Sweet Potato Sesame Balls.
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Prepare the Coating: In a small bowl, mix a tablespoon of glutinous rice flour with 1/2 cup of water. Dip each dough ball into this mixture, then coat it generously with sesame seeds for that crunchy finish.
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Firm the Coating: Gently press the sesame-coated balls to make sure the seeds stick well. Repeat the process until all balls are coated and ready for frying.
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Heat and Fry: In a deep saucepan, heat the cooking oil over high heat until it reaches 125°C / 250°F. Then, reduce to medium heat and carefully add your sesame balls to the oil.
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Brown and Crisp: Gently push the balls down occasionally and watch as they turn a beautiful bright orange. Fry until perfectly golden and crisp.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Sesame Balls are perfect for meal prepping, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy this delightful treat with minimal effort. You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling and coating the balls in sesame seeds, then refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat your cooking oil as instructed and fry them straight from the fridge for that same delicious crunch. This approach not only saves you time but ensures your Sweet Potato Sesame Balls are just as delicious, making them an ideal snack or appetizer for any occasion.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Sesame Balls
Room Temperature: Keep freshly made Sweet Potato Sesame Balls in an airtight container for up to 1 day to maintain their crispiness.
Fridge: Store any leftover balls in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container to retain moisture without becoming soggy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked dough balls lined on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag after solidified. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore their crunch and warmth.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Sesame Balls?
Imagine an inviting gathering where flavors dance on the palate, bringing family and friends together. These delightful bites are perfect for pairing with a variety of other dishes to create a balanced meal.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: A tangy chili sauce adds a delightful kick, balancing the sweetness of the sesame balls beautifully. It’s perfect for those who love a little heat!
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Crispy Green Salad: Fresh greens with a zesty dressing provide a crunchy contrast and brighten the dish, creating a refreshing complement to the rich sweetness of the sesame balls.
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Steamed Broccoli: The earthy flavors of steamed broccoli offer a nutritional boost and a pop of color that makes your meal visually tempting and wholesome.
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Lemon Ginger Tea: A warm cup of this soothing drink not only enhances flavors but also aids digestion, making it an excellent choice after a hearty snack.
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Asian-Inspired Quinoa Bowl: A bowl of fluffy quinoa with sautéed vegetables brings heartiness and nutty flavors that pair well with the unique taste of sweet potato.
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Mango Coconut Sorbet: As a delightful dessert to finish the meal, this luscious sorbet offers tropical sweetness and creaminess that perfectly complements the nutty crunch of the sesame balls.
These pairing ideas ensure that your Sweet Potato Sesame Balls shine, offering a well-rounded and memorable dining experience!
Expert Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Sesame Balls
- Choose the Right Sweet Potato: Select firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and smoother texture. Avoid any that feel soft or have dark spots.
- Don’t Skimp on Mixing: Mix the dough thoroughly until it’s soft and pliable to ensure even texture in your Sweet Potato Sesame Balls. This will enhance the overall chewiness!
- Coating Technique: When coating with sesame seeds, press gently to ensure they stick well. This prevents the seeds from falling off during frying, giving you a perfect crunch.
- Oil Temperature: Monitor the oil temperature closely; frying at the correct medium heat ensures an even cook, preventing burnt outsides and raw insides.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dough before frying and adjust the sugar level to suit your preference. Just a little more sugar can enhance the overall flavor of your Sweet Potato Sesame Balls!
Sweet Potato Sesame Balls Variations
Feel free to play with ingredients and make these Sweet Potato Sesame Balls uniquely yours!
- Vegan: Replace the sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a plant-based sweetener.
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds into the dough for an extra crunch and rich flavor.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the sweet potato’s natural sweetness.
For a different twist, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Gluten-Free: Swap glutinous rice flour with tapioca flour for a gluten-free alternative; they’ll still maintain that delightful chew.
- Savory Version: Mix in some finely chopped green onions and a hint of soy sauce into the dough for a savory take that’s just as delicious.
- Sweeten the Deal: Add chocolate chips into the dough for a rich, decadent variation that’s sure to delight your sweet tooth.
- Baked Option: Instead of frying, brush with oil and bake them in the oven at 200°C / 400°F for a healthier option that still packs flavor.
With these variations, the possibilities are endless!
Sweet Potato Sesame Balls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sweet potato?
Absolutely! For the best results, select firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. Look for those that feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin; avoid any with dark spots or softness as they may indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Sweet Potato Sesame Balls?
Great question! Store any leftover balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help retain their moisture while preventing them from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Sesame Balls?
Yes, you can! To freeze the uncooked dough, line the sesame balls on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 2 hours until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
How do I reheat Sweet Potato Sesame Balls for the best texture?
To bring back that delightful crunch, preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Place the balls on a baking sheet and heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This method restores their crispy exterior beautifully!
Can pets enjoy Sweet Potato Sesame Balls?
While sweet potato is safe in small amounts for dogs, I wouldn’t recommend feeding them the sesame balls as they contain sugar and cooking oil. It’s best to keep these delicious snacks just for you and your loved ones!
What if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky when mixing, simply add a little bit of glutinous rice flour gradually until it reaches a soft and workable consistency. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can change the texture of your Sweet Potato Sesame Balls.
Irresistible Sweet Potato Sesame Balls You’ll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by piercing the sweet potato several times with a fork or knife. Bake it in a preheated oven at 200°C / 400°F / Gas 6 for 45 – 60 minutes. Allow it to cool before peeling.
- Mash the sweet potato until smooth. Gradually add in the glutinous rice flour and sugar while mixing with a spatula. Then, using your hands, bring it all together to form a soft and pliable dough.
- Divide your dough into 12 equal parts. Roll each piece gently into a ball.
- In a small bowl, mix a tablespoon of glutinous rice flour with 1/2 cup of water. Dip each dough ball into this mixture, then coat it generously with sesame seeds.
- Gently press the sesame-coated balls to make sure the seeds stick well. Repeat the process until all balls are coated and ready for frying.
- In a deep saucepan, heat the cooking oil over high heat until it reaches 125°C / 250°F. Then, reduce to medium heat and carefully add your sesame balls to the oil.
- Gently push the balls down occasionally and fry until perfectly golden and crisp.