Chinese Food

Introduction

The air fryer, a kitchen appliance that has revolutionized the way we cook, offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying methods. By circulating hot air rapidly, it creates a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful. One of the delightful treats you can prepare in an air fryer is the sesame cake, a staple in many Asian cuisines known for its golden-brown crust and soft, slightly sweet interior. Also known as shaobing or shao bing in Mandarin, these cakes are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a companion to a hearty soup.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of baking sesame cakes using an air fryer. From preparing the dough to achieving the perfect bake, we’ll cover all the essentials to ensure your sesame cakes turn out delicious every time.

Section 1: Understanding the Ingredients

Before diving into the recipe, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key ingredients you’ll need:

1. Flour: All-purpose flour is commonly used for its versatility. It provides the structure for the dough.
2. Water: Acts as a binding agent, helping to form the dough.
3. Yeast: Essential for leavening, yeast causes the dough to rise, giving the cakes a light and airy texture.
4. Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
5. Salt: Enhances flavor and controls the yeast’s activity.
6. Oil: Vegetable or neutral oil is used for both the dough and brushing the cakes before baking, promoting a golden-brown crust.
7. Sesame Seeds: These add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the exterior of the cakes.

Section 2: Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (around 110°F or 45°C), a pinch of sugar, and a sprinkle of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.

3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture and a bit more water (if needed) into the well in the flour. Start mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.

4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water.

5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Section 3: Shaping and Preparing the Cakes

1. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.

2. Divide and Shape: Divide the dough into equal portions (typically 6-8 pieces for standard-sized air fryers). Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a round disc, about 1/4-1/2 inch thick. Use a rolling pin if necessary.

3. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush each disc with vegetable oil. This will help create a glossy, golden-brown crust.

4. Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds: Evenly distribute sesame seeds over the surface of each disc. Press them gently into the dough so they adhere well.

5. Second Rise: Cover the shaped cakes with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for another 15-20 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and ensures a softer texture after baking.

Section 4: Baking in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures the baking environment is hot enough to create an even bake.

   

2. Arrange the Cakes: Depending on the size of your air fryer basket, you may need to bake the cakes in batches. Place them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for proper air circulation, which is crucial for achieving an even bake.

3. Bake: Set the timer for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through (around 4-5 minutes), check the cakes. If they are browning too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly or flip them over for even baking. However, most air fryers do not require flipping due to their efficient heat circulation.

4. Check for Doneness: When the cakes are golden brown and have reached your desired level of crispiness, remove them from the air fryer. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating they are fully baked.

Section 5: Cooling and Serving

1. Cool on a Wire Rack: Transfer the baked sesame cakes to a wire rack to cool slightly. This prevents them from becoming soggy as they cool down.

2. Serve Warm: Sesame cakes are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them plain, or with a variety of toppings and fillings such as sweetened condensed milk, red bean paste, or even a savory filling like scrambled eggs and vegetables.

3. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can place them back in the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Section 6: Tips and Troubleshooting

1. Temperature Control: Air fryers can vary in their heating capabilities. It’s essential to keep an eye on your cakes during the first batch to adjust the temperature and time accordingly for subsequent batches.

2. Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the air fryer basket can hinder proper air circulation, leading to uneven baking. Stick to the recommended capacity for your specific model.

3. Yeast Activation: If your yeast doesn’t activate (i.e., it doesn’t become frothy), it could be due to expired yeast, water that’s too hot or too cold, or insufficient sugar. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and use lukewarm water.

4. Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. Adjust the flour and water amounts as needed based on the humidity and the type of flour you’re using.

5. Crispiness: If your cakes are not as crispy as you’d like, you can brush them with a bit more oil before baking or increase the baking time slightly, keeping a close eye to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Baking sesame cakes in an air fryer is a delightful way to enjoy this traditional treat without the guilt of deep-frying. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create golden-brown, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside sesame cakes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re satisfying a midnight snack craving or preparing a hearty breakfast, these cakes will not disappoint.

Remember, the beauty of cooking with an air fryer lies in its versatility and ability to create healthier versions of your favorite foods. Experiment with different fillings and toppings to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy the convenience and efficiency of this modern kitchen gadget. Happy baking!