Tang Yuan (Chinese Sweet Rice Balls)
In Chinese culture, Tang Yuan symbolizes togetherness, unity, and happiness, making it a traditional dish for the Lunar New Year and the Lantern Festival. The round shape represents the family's wholeness, and the warm, sweet broth evokes cherished moments. The filling, most commonly black sesame seeds, melts into a soft cream inside the Tang Yuan when heated, providing a unique experience with every bite. Preparation is simple yet requires attention and patience: the right dough consistency and even shaping of the dumplings are crucial. Tip: For a more intense flavor experience, you can flavor the cooking liquid with ginger and brown sugar for a more aromatic version.
Ingredients for this recipe
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Preparation Steps
1
Toast the black sesame seeds in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Toasting enhances their flavor.
2
Place the toasted sesame seeds in a food processor, add the sugar and butter, and grind into a fine, thick paste. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
3
Gradually mix the glutinous rice flour with the warm water. First, stir with a spoon, then knead by hand until you have a smooth, pliable dough. If it's too dry, add a little more water.
4
Divide the dough into small pieces and roll them into balls. Flatten the center of each ball and add a small amount of sesame filling. Gently close the dough around the filling and reshape into a ball.
5
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the tang yuan into the boiling water. Once they float to the surface, cook for another 2-3 minutes. Avoid stirring vigorously to prevent them from breaking.
6
Remove the cooked tang yuan with a slotted spoon and serve warm in the cooking liquid. The sweet, molten sesame filling will melt softly inside.
