crab shell yellow recipe

How to Make Crab Shell Sesame Cakes (Xie Huang Huang)

Crab Shell Sesame Cakes, or *Xie Huang Huang*, are a beloved Chinese snack known for their golden crust, flaky layers, and savory sesame aroma. Here’s a simple guide to making them at home.

Ingredients: You’ll need all-purpose flour, warm water, salt, sugar, sesame seeds, and a choice of fillings—such as savory minced pork with scallions or sweet red bean paste. Lard or vegetable oil is key for flakiness.

Steps:

1. Prepare the dough: Mix flour with a pinch of salt and sugar. Gradually add warm water while kneading until smooth. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Make the filling: For savory fillings, cook minced pork with soy sauce and ginger; for sweet versions, mash red beans with sugar.

3. Shape the cakes: Roll the dough into thin rectangles, spread the filling evenly, then roll it into a log. Cut into 3-4 cm segments. Flatten each segment into a round cake, brush with water, and coat generously with sesame seeds.

4. Cook: Heat oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Fry the cakes until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain excess oil on paper towels.

Tips: For extra flakiness, incorporate lard into the dough. Adjust sweetness/saltiness to taste. Serve warm as a breakfast treat or snack. Enjoy the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness in every bite!

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