chess beans recipe

How to Make Chess Piece Beans: A Simple Guide

Chess Piece Beans, a beloved crispy snack in China, are named for their resemblance to chess pieces. These savory, golden treats are easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. Here’s a basic guide to get you started.

Ingredients: You’ll need 200g wheat flour, 50g cornstarch, 1 egg, 30g sugar, 5g salt, 3g baking powder, and 80ml water or milk. Optional: a pinch of sesame seeds or five-spice powder for extra flavor.

Steps:

1. Mix the dough: In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Beat the egg and gradually add it to the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick, dough-like forms. Knead gently for 5 minutes until smooth.

2. Shape the beans: Roll the dough into a long log, about 2cm thick. Cut it into small 3cm pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then press lightly to flatten slightly—this gives them their “chess piece” look.

3. Fry or bake: For frying, heat oil to 160°C and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden. For a healthier option, bake at 180°C for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Season: While hot, sprinkle with salt, sesame seeds, or your favorite spices. Let them cool completely—they’ll get crispier as they cool!

Enjoy these crunchy snacks with tea or as a party treat. Experiment with shapes or spices to make them your own!

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