Delicious Black Sesame Tang Yuan: Cozy Chewy Rice Balls

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s something truly special about creating a dish that brings warmth and connection to the table especially when it comes to Black Sesame Tang Yuan. As the first hints of winter settle in, I find myself craving this traditional Asian dessert. The combination of chewy rice balls bursting with a rich, sweet black sesame filling has a way of wrapping me up in nostalgia.

I first encountered this gem during a Lunar New Year celebration at a friend s house, where the air was filled with laughter and the enticing aroma of ginger broth simmering away. Today, I m excited to share this gluten-free delight that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also embodies the spirit of togetherness. Whether you re searching for an exciting new project in the kitchen or simply looking to elevate your dessert game, this easy Black Sesame Tang Yuan recipe will draw everyone in and invite them to gather around, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Let s get rolling!

Why will you love Black Sesame Tang Yuan?

Unique Cheat Treat: This dessert stands out with its chewy, slightly sticky texture that makes every bite a delight.
Cultural Comfort: Enjoy the nostalgic flavors reminiscent of family gatherings, especially during celebrations.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you ll whip up this gluten-free treat effortlessly.
Versatile Flavor: Although rich in black sesame, feel free to experiment with other fillings like red bean or peanut.
Warm and Cozy: Served in a sweet ginger broth, it s the perfect remedy for chilly evenings and evokes warmth and comfort.
Indulging in this traditional dessert will not only fill your kitchen with enticing aromas but also create memorable moments with loved ones.

Black Sesame Tang Yuan Ingredients

For the Dough
Glutinous Rice Flour Provides the chewy texture; essential for a perfect Black Sesame Tang Yuan.
Water Binds the flour into a dough; add gradually for the best consistency.

For the Filling
Black Sesame Seeds The star ingredient that gives a nutty flavor; toasting enhances its aroma.
Sugar Sweetens the filling; can be replaced with palm sugar for a rich twist.
Butter Adds creaminess; substitute with a vegan option if desired.

For the Broth
Brown Sugar Sweetens the ginger broth; white sugar or coconut sugar are suitable alternatives.
Fresh Ginger Adds warmth to the broth; adjust based on your spice preference.
Dates (Optional) Infuses natural sweetness to the broth; omit for a less sweet flavor.

With these ingredients, you re well on your way to making a delicious batch of Black Sesame Tang Yuan that not only pleases the palette but also warms the heart!

How to Make Black Sesame Tang Yuan

1. Prepare Filling: Start by grinding the black sesame seeds with sugar and butter in a food processor until a fine paste forms. Set aside in the freezer while you prepare the dough for a firmer filling.

2. Make Dough: In a mixing bowl, gradually combine the glutinous rice flour with water, mixing until a smooth, pliable dough forms aim for a consistency similar to Play-Doh.

3. Divide and Shape Dough: Roll your dough into a log, then cut it into 10-12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disc, creating a perfect cradle for the filling.

4. Fill and Seal: Spoon a small ball of the sesame paste into the center of each disc. Carefully wrap the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal well. Roll gently to smooth any seams.

5. Cook Tang Yuan: Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the rice balls in and cook until they float to the top, about 5-6 minutes this way, you know they re perfectly cooked!

6. Prepare Ginger Broth: In a separate pot, simmer water, brown sugar, freshly sliced ginger, and optional dates for about 30 minutes. Serve the cooked tang yuan in this warm ginger broth, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Optional: Garnish with extra ginger slices for an added kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Black Sesame Tang Yuan

Feel free to put your personal spin on these delightful rice balls; there are so many ways to make them your own!

• Red Bean Filling: Swap out the black sesame paste with sweetened red bean paste for a classic twist that still delights.

• Peanut Butter Surprise: Use creamy peanut butter as the filling for a nutty flavor that adds a fun modern touch to the traditional treat.

• Chocolate Bliss: Replace the black sesame with melted dark chocolate for a sweet, indulgent version that satisfies any chocoholic s cravings.

• Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep it rich and vegan-friendly without losing flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the ginger broth for those who enjoy a bit of heat along with the sweetness.

• Matcha Magic: Infuse the dough with matcha powder for a vibrant green color and a subtly earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet filling.

• Fruit-Filled Tang Yuan: Experiment with chopped fruits like mango or strawberries inside for a refreshing dessert that brings a burst of freshness with each bite.

• Almond Flour Twist: For a nutty twist on the dough, consider mixing in a bit of almond flour, which complements the black sesame beautifully.

Each of these variations adds its own unique personality to the beloved Black Sesame Tang Yuan, inviting you to explore new flavors and textures while cherishing this comforting tradition!

What to Serve with Black Sesame Tang Yuan?

Creating a delightful experience around your Black Sesame Tang Yuan can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.

• Warm Ginger Tea: The spicy warmth of ginger tea complements the nutty flavor of the tang yuan, making it a truly cozy pairing.
• Steamed Greens: Lightly blanched bok choy or spinach offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the sweet filling.
• Sesame Spinach Salad: A salad tossed with sesame oil and fresh greens provides a crunchy, savory element to your dessert.
• Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet treat features soft rice and ripe mango, harmonizing perfectly with the chewy tang yuan for an indulgent experience.
• Chilled Lychee: Floral and sweet, chilled lychee fruits add a refreshing note that contrasts beautifully with the warm broth.
• Fruit Salad: A mix of citrus fruits, like oranges and grapefruit, adds brightness and acidity to balance the dessert s richness.
• Black Sesame Milk: Enhance your experience by sipping on homemade black sesame milk. Its creaminess resonates with the tang yuan s filling.
• Almond Biscotti: For a bit of crunch, these nutty cookies provide a textured contrast and a hint of sweetness with every bite.
• Sake: A glass of warm sake enhances flavors, creating a comforting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.

Gather your loved ones around the table and savor the joy each of these pairings bring to the comforting warmth of Black Sesame Tang Yuan!

Expert Tips for Black Sesame Tang Yuan

Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is soft and pliable; adding too much water will make it too sticky to work with.

Proper Sealing: Pinch the edges of the dough tightly to avoid bursting during cooking, as overfilling can cause leaks.

Toasting Sesame: For a richer flavor, toast the black sesame seeds before grinding; this enhances the aroma and adds depth to the filling.

Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the rice balls as they float; once they do, it usually takes just a couple more minutes to ensure they re thoroughly cooked.

Flavoring the Broth: Allow the ginger broth to simmer patiently for a balanced flavor; don t rush this step for the best taste experience.

Enjoy your journey in making these delightful Black Sesame Tang Yuan!

How to Store and Freeze Black Sesame Tang Yuan

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the chewy texture intact. Reheat in a steamer or microwave with a little water to restore moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked tang yuan individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They remain good for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen without thawing, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

Ginger Broth: The broth can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving with the tang yuan.

Reheating: If served chilled, gently reheat the black sesame tang yuan in the broth or steam until warm for the best flavor experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Black Sesame Tang Yuan are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply grind the black sesame seeds with sugar and butter, then store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The dough can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours just wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you re ready to enjoy these delightful rice balls, simply shape and cook them directly from the fridge; they ll be just as delicious! Serve them immediately in the warm ginger broth for a comforting dessert that s perfect for busy weeknights.

Black Sesame Tang Yuan Recipe FAQs

What type of black sesame seeds should I use?
I recommend using raw black sesame seeds for the filling. You can toast them lightly in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their nutty flavor before grinding them into a paste.

How should I store my leftover Black Sesame Tang Yuan?
Store leftover tang yuan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a steamer or a microwave with a splash of water to restore their chewy texture.

Can I freeze Black Sesame Tang Yuan?
Absolutely! For freezing, first, make the tang yuan but don t cook them. Instead, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They ll keep well for up to 1 month. When ready to cook, simply drop them into boiling water directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

What should I do if my tang yuan dough is too sticky?
If your dough becomes too sticky, sprinkle a little more glutinous rice flour on your working surface and on your hands while shaping. This will help prevent sticking and allow you to work with the dough more easily. Just be cautious not to add too much flour, as it can alter the chewiness!

Is this recipe safe for those with gluten allergies?
Yes! The Black Sesame Tang Yuan recipe is gluten-free as it uses glutinous rice flour. However, always check the packaging to ensure there are no cross-contamination warnings if serving someone with a severe gluten allergy.

Can I use something other than ginger in the broth?
Certainly! While fresh ginger adds warmth, you can substitute it with other spices like cinnamon for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness using coconut sugar or even honey for a unique twist.