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Korean Chestnut & Jujube Sweet Rice Balls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 31 reviews
  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Korean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Korean Chestnut & Jujube Sweet Rice Balls are a delightful traditional treat made with glutinous rice flour filled with a sweet mixture of chestnuts and jujubes. These chewy, subtly sweet rice balls are boiled to perfection and optionally garnished with toasted sesame seeds, making them a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 cups glutinous rice flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cooked chestnuts
  • 1/2 cup pitted and chopped jujubes

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for dusting)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a spacious bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, granulated sugar, and sea salt. Gradually add water while stirring continuously until a pliable dough forms. If too sticky, add a little more rice flour to achieve a workable consistency.
  2. Shape the Dough Balls: Divide the dough into small portions roughly the size of a golf ball. Flatten each piece in your hand to create a small disc.
  3. Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the chestnut and jujube mixture in the center of each flattened dough disc.
  4. Seal the Balls: Carefully fold the edges over the filling and roll the dough back into a smooth ball, enclosing the filling completely.
  5. Boil the Rice Balls: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently drop the rice balls in batches into the boiling water without overcrowding.
  6. Cook Until Floating: Let the rice balls cook for 5-7 minutes or until they rise to the surface, indicating they are fully cooked.
  7. Remove and Dust: Use a slotted spoon to lift the cooked rice balls and place them on a plate dusted with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy this sweet Korean delicacy.

Notes

  • Ensure the dough is pliable but not too sticky for easy shaping.
  • If you can’t find jujubes, dried dates can be used as a substitute.
  • Toasting sesame seeds before sprinkling enhances their flavor.
  • These rice balls can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spicy twist.