Black Sesame Tang Yuan in Sweet Ginger Soup (Glutinous Rice Dumplings)

Black Sesame Tang Yuan in Sweet Ginger Soup (Glutinous Rice Dumplings)

Yield
About 20 tang yuan (4–5 servings)

Black Sesame Tang Yuan

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup black sesame seeds
• 3 tbsp peanut oil
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (or ~1/2 slab Chinese sugar)
• 1 1/4 cups glutinous rice flour (about 160g)
• 1/3 cup freshly boiled water
• 3–4 tbsp room temperature water

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling
Gently toast the black sesame seeds in a dry pan over low heat until aromatic. Let cool, then grind into a fine powder.

If using slab sugar, break it into small pieces and grind into a fine texture. Combine the sesame powder, sugar, and peanut oil until it forms a smooth paste. Add a little more oil if needed for a soft consistency.

2. Shape the filling
Chill the mixture in the freezer for about 10–15 minutes until slightly firm. Scoop small portions (about 1/2 teaspoon each), roll into balls, and keep chilled until ready to use.

3. Make the dough
Place glutinous rice flour in a bowl. Pour in the hot water and mix. Gradually add room temperature water while kneading until a soft, smooth dough forms that is slightly tacky but not sticky.

4. Assemble the tang yuan
Divide the dough into 20 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, then flatten into a small disc. Place a sesame filling ball in the center, wrap the dough around it, seal tightly, and roll gently into a smooth sphere. Keep covered to prevent drying.

5. Cook
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add tang yuan and stir gently to prevent sticking. Reduce to a simmer and cook until they float to the surface. Let cook another 1–2 minutes, then remove.

Tip: Freeze any uncooked tang yuan for later use.

Sweet Ginger Soup

Ingredients

• 8–10 slices fresh ginger
• 4 tbsp brown sugar (or ~1/2 slab Chinese sugar)
• 2 1/2 cups water

Instructions

1. Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan.
2. Add ginger slices and sugar.
3. Lower heat and simmer for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice by adding more sugar or ginger if desired.

To Serve

Place cooked tang yuan into bowls and ladle warm ginger syrup over them, just enough to cover. Serve immediately while hot.

Effects/Benefits

Black sesame seeds – Nourish liver and kidneys in TCM, rich in healthy fats, calcium, and antioxidants that support hair, skin, and bone health.

Brown sugar / Chinese slab sugar – Provides quick energy and, in TCM, helps warm the body and promote blood circulation.

Peanut oil – Contains heart-healthy fats and vitamin E that support cardiovascular health and skin nourishment.

Glutinous rice flour – Easily digestible energy source that, in TCM, helps strengthen the spleen and support digestion.

Ginger – Warms the body, aids digestion, relieves nausea, and has anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties.

Water – Essential for hydration, circulation, and overall bodily function.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy is a complementary approach and should not replace professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. Individual responses to herbs and foods may vary.