These Sweet Potato Sesame Cakes are a delightful treat with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Made from mashed sweet potatoes, glutinous rice flour, and a touch of sugar, these cakes have a chewy, soft texture. The toasted sesame seeds on top add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor, while the frying process gives them a crispy exterior. These cakes are a great snack or dessert, perfect for any occasion. Simple to make and incredibly flavorful, they are a fun twist on traditional sweet potato dishes.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 400g Sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into small pieces
- 100g Glutinous rice flour
- 20g Sugar
- 120 ml Milk
- Toasted sesame seeds, for topping
- Cooking oil, for frying
Directions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel and cut the 400g sweet potatoes into small pieces.
- Place them in a steamer and steam for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft and easily mashed.
- Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
- Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove them from the steamer and transfer them to a large bowl.
- Use a potato masher or a dough roller to mash the sweet potatoes while they are still hot, until smooth.
- Mix the Dough:
- Add 100g glutinous rice flour and 20g sugar to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Gradually pour in 120 ml of milk, mixing continuously to prevent the dough from becoming too pasty. Knead the dough by hand for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and soft.
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface and divide it into small portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it gently with your hands to form small cakes.
- Add Sesame Seeds:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of each cake, then gently press them into the dough to ensure they stick.
- Fry the Cakes:
- Heat cooking oil in a pan over low heat until it reaches around 140°C (284°F).
- Fry the cakes for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve:
- Once the cakes are golden and crispy, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve warm and enjoy the soft, chewy texture and the sweet, fragrant flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a cup of tea or coffee as a light snack.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced dessert.
- Serve alongside a salad for a more substantial meal.
- Top with a drizzle of honey or syrup for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy as a breakfast item with a dollop of yogurt or cream.
Cooking Tips:
- Be sure to steam the sweet potatoes well to ensure they mash easily and create a smooth dough.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more rice flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more milk.
- Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar according to your taste.
- Fry the cakes on low heat to ensure the inside cooks properly before the outside becomes too dark.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, promoting healthy skin and immune function.
- Glutinous rice flour provides a chewy texture and is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Sesame seeds offer healthy fats, protein, and minerals like calcium, which contribute to bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free (if using gluten-free flour alternatives for dusting)
- Nut-free (unless using nut oils in cooking)
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~180-200 kcal (based on size and frying method)
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbs: ~35g
- Fat: ~6g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~5g
Storage:
- Store leftover sweet potato sesame cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or on the stove to retain crispiness.
- You can also freeze the cakes. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet when ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Sweet potatoes give the cakes a naturally sweet and earthy flavor, while the sesame seeds add a delightful crunch.
- The chewy, soft texture of the cakes makes them uniquely satisfying.
- They are quick and easy to make, with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
- This recipe is versatile and can be customized by adding additional spices or toppings according to your preferences.
Conclusion: Sweet Potato Sesame Cakes are a unique and delicious treat that combines the rich flavor of sweet potatoes with the nutty taste of toasted sesame seeds. The combination of soft, chewy interiors and crispy exteriors makes them irresistible. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or breakfast, these cakes will surely satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of texture and flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes? Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but the flavor will be less sweet, and the texture may vary slightly.
- Can I make these cakes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Fry the cakes just before serving for the best texture.
- Is there a substitute for glutinous rice flour? You can use regular rice flour, but glutinous rice flour will give the cakes a chewier texture.
- How can I make these cakes spicier? Add extra chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne to the dough for more heat.
- Can I bake these instead of frying them? Baking may not give the same crispy texture, but you can bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- How can I make these cakes sweeter? Increase the sugar or drizzle with honey or syrup before serving.
- Can I freeze these cakes? Yes, freeze them after frying and then reheat in the oven or skillet when ready to eat.
- Are these cakes suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, they are naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free flour for dusting.
- Can I add other vegetables to the cakes? Yes, you can add finely chopped carrots, peas, or corn for added flavor and texture