Fusion Vietnamese Sesame Balls (Banh Cam) with Matcha and Chocolate Filling
A fusion twist on traditional Vietnamese sesame balls, incorporating matcha and chocolate fillings alongside the classic red bean paste.

Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1cupglutinous rice flour
- 1/4cupregular rice flour
- 1/4cupsugar
- 1/2cupwarm water
- 1/2tspbaking powder
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 1/2tspmatcha powder
- 1/2cupsesame seeds
For the Filling
- 1/4cupsweetened red bean paste
- 1/4cupchocolate chips
- 1tbspcoconut milk
For Frying
- Vegetable oil
How to make Fusion Vietnamese Sesame Balls (Banh Cam) with Matcha and Chocolate Filling
Prepare the Filling
Divide the red bean paste into small 1-inch balls.
In a small bowl, mix the chocolate chips with coconut milk. Form into 1-inch balls. Chill both fillings in the fridge while you prepare the dough.
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour, regular rice flour, sugar, baking powder, matcha powder, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add warm water, stirring constantly, until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not sticky.
Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
Assemble the Sesame Balls
Divide the dough into small golf ball-sized portions.
Flatten each portion into a disk, place a red bean ball or chocolate ball in the center, and carefully wrap the dough around it. Pinch the edges to seal.
Roll each filled dough ball between your palms to create a smooth, round shape.
Coat with Sesame Seeds
Roll each ball in a plate of sesame seeds, pressing gently to make sure the seeds stick to the surface.
Fry the Sesame Balls
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok to about 350°F (175°C).
Fry the sesame balls in batches, ensuring they have enough space to expand. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
Once done, remove the balls and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Serve
Serve the sesame balls warm with a combination of the traditional red bean filling and the fusion chocolate filling, adding a delightful surprise with every bite.
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the dough is not too sticky; add a bit more flour if needed.
Chill the fillings to make them easier to handle when wrapping with dough.
Fry the sesame balls in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
FAQS
How do I make the dough for Vietnamese sesame balls with matcha and chocolate filling?
To make the dough for your Fusion Vietnamese Sesame Balls, combine 1 cup of glutinous rice flour, 0.25 cup of regular rice flour, 0.25 cup of sugar, 0.5 tsp of baking powder, 0.5 tsp of matcha powder, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract in a large bowl. Gradually add 0.5 cup of warm water while stirring until the dough is soft but not sticky. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth, then let it rest covered for 10-15 minutes.
What are some dietary substitutions for making Banh Cam with matcha and chocolate filling?
If you're looking for dietary substitutions for this recipe, you can use almond flour or coconut flour instead of glutinous rice flour for a gluten-free option. For a vegan version, replace the chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate and use a plant-based milk instead of coconut milk. Additionally, you can substitute the sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia.
How should I store leftover Fusion Vietnamese Sesame Balls?
To store leftover Fusion Vietnamese Sesame Balls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
What can I serve with Vietnamese sesame balls to enhance the meal?
To enhance your meal, consider serving the Fusion Vietnamese Sesame Balls with a side of sweetened condensed milk for dipping or a light fruit salad. You could also pair them with a refreshing herbal tea or a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee to complement the flavors of the matcha and chocolate filling.
What is the best frying temperature for making crispy sesame balls?
The best frying temperature for making crispy Fusion Vietnamese Sesame Balls is around 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the balls cook evenly and develop a golden-brown, crispy exterior. Be sure to fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy balls.
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@chefspalette
Chefspalette is a culinary artist known for her innovative fusion recipes that merge traditional flavors with modern twists. Writing for Chefadora involves exploring diverse cuisines, combining unexpected ingredients, and creating recipes that bring a fresh perspective to classic dishes. With a focus on sustainability, creativity, and flavor, Chefadora inspires readers to experiment in the kitchen and discover the joy of cooking with a sense of adventure. Chefspalette is a culinary artist known for her innovative fusion recipes that merge traditional flavors with modern twists. Writing for Chefadora involves exploring diverse cuisines,...
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