Air Fryer Crispy Black Sesame Balls

Add the black sesame seeds to a dry pan over medium heat. Toast for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly with a spatula to prevent burning. Once they smell fragrant and nutty, remove from heat and let them cool completely.

While the black sesame seeds are cooling, prepare your mochi dough. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and boiling water. Stir until a dough forms. Let it cool for a few minutes until it’s safe to touch, then add the teaspoon of oil and knead with your hands until smooth and well combined.

Once the toasted black sesame seeds are cool, grind them in a coffee grinder or food processor until fine. Add the honey and oil, and mix until it becomes a sticky, paste-like dough.

Divide both the mochi dough and black sesame filling into 6 equal portions. Flatten one piece of mochi dough in your hand, place a ball of black sesame filling in the centre, and carefully wrap the dough around it. Pinch to seal completely. Repeat for the rest.

Lightly wet the surface of each ball with water so the coating sticks better. Roll each one in white sesame seeds until fully coated.

Place the balls in the air fryer basket and spray all sides lightly with oil. First, air fry at 80°C (176°F) for 15 minutes to allow the mochi to gently cook through. Then increase the temperature to 170°C (338°F) and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the outside turns golden and crispy.

Let the sesame balls cool for about 10 minutes before eating. The filling will be hot and slightly molten inside. Enjoy!