Sesame Rice Balls (Banh Tieu): Crunchy & Delicious

Sesame rice balls, also known as Banh Tieu in Vietnamese cuisine, are a popular delicacy that combines crispy and crunchy textures with a sweet and savory flavor profile. These delectable treats are perfect for a snack or as a dessert, and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of hot tea. In this article, we’ll dive into what makes sesame rice balls so special and how you can make them at home.

What are Sesame Rice Balls?

Sesame rice balls are deep-fried snacks made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, sesame seeds, and sometimes filled with mung bean paste or red bean paste. The dough is rolled into small balls, coated with sesame seeds, and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. These rice balls are often enjoyed during Lunar New Year celebrations in Vietnam, where they are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

How to Make Sesame Rice Balls

Making sesame rice balls at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

• Ingredients:
  1. 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  2. 1/3 cup sugar
  3. 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  4. 1/4 cup mung bean paste or red bean paste (optional)
  5. Oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar.
  2. Add water gradually and knead the mixture until it forms a smooth dough.
  3. Take a small piece of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a small amount of mung bean paste or red bean paste in the center and roll it into a ball.
  4. Coat the ball with sesame seeds.
  5. Heat oil in a deep-fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan.
  6. Gently drop the rice balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy!

These sesame rice balls are best enjoyed fresh and warm. The contrast of the crispy exterior with the chewy interior, along with the nutty flavor of the sesame seeds, makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Where to Find Sesame Rice Balls

If you’re not up for making sesame rice balls at home, you can often find them at Vietnamese bakeries or Asian grocery stores. They are typically sold in packs and can be stored at room temperature for a few days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds to regain their crispiness.

In Conclusion

Sesame rice balls, or Banh Tieu, are a delightful treat that combines crunchiness and sweetness in every bite. Whether you make them at home or purchase them from a bakery, these little morsels of joy are sure to brighten up your day. So why not give them a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself?