Fried Tangyuan
Fried Tangyuan is a delicious twist on a beloved traditional dessert commonly eaten in Taiwan during the Dongzhi Festival, or Winter Solstice. While tangyuan are typically boiled and served in sweet syrup, this version is deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside — while staying chewy and soft on the inside.Tangyuan symbolizes family reunion and growing older in Taiwanese culture, and is often made from glutinous rice flour with or without sweet fillings like black sesame or peanut. After frying, they’re dusted in peanut powder or powdered sugar for extra flavor and crunch.This creative take on tangyuan is especially popular among younger generations for its irresistible texture and playful presentation. Whether you're celebrating the holidays or just craving something unique, fried tangyuan is a must-try fusion of tradition and fun.
Servings 4 people
Prep Time 0 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Resting Time 0 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Oil Brush
Ingredients
- 300 g traditional tangyuan
- 50 g potato starch
- 30 g grounded peanut
- 30 g icing sugar
- Vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F)
- Pour potato starch into a tray and coat the tangyuan with potato starch.
- Place the tangyuan in the fry basket and insert it into the air fryer. Cook it for 3 minutes.
- After 3 minutes, open the basket and brush the tangyuan with vegetable oil. Continue to cook for 15 minutes.
- While the tangyuan is cooking, we can make peanut powder. Pour ground peanut and icing sugar into a bowl and mix well.
- After finished frying, pour them into the tray and let them coat with peanut powder.
- Serve the Fried Tangyuan. Finish and enjoy
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Keyword: tangyuan recipe, glutinous rice balls, Asian fried desserts, winter solstice food
Serving & Storage Tips
Best served hot and fresh for maximum crispness. Not ideal for storing or reheating, as texture will soften. Serve immediately after coating.