Today, let's master the art of making "Smiling Delights," also known as "Laughing Jujubes" or "Joyful Pastries." When preparing these sweet treats, it's crucial not to skimp on sugar. Reducing sugar may lead to increased water usage, affecting the dough's consistency. Freshly fried Smiling Delights may seem satisfactory, but the real magic happens after they've rested overnight, absorbing excess oil. Even if stored in a completely sealed container!
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Smiling Delights (Laughing Jujubes) Recipe:
- Sugar: 100g
- Water: 70g
- All-purpose Flour: 200g
- Baking Soda: 1g
- Vegetable Oil: 15g
- Water (adjustment): 10g
- Sesame Seeds: 100g
Start by dissolving 100g of sugar in 70g of water over low heat. Boil until the sugar completely dissolves, then simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat, let it cool, and set aside. This sugar not only adds sweetness but also regulates water usage, so be cautious not to reduce the quantity. Speed up the cooling process by placing the syrup in cold water.
In a bowl, mix 200g of all-purpose flour, 1g of baking soda, and 15g of vegetable oil. Ensure even mixing. The oil molecules prevent the formation of strong gluten in the flour, ensuring a crispy texture.
Pour the cooled syrup into the flour mixture, blend well. Adjust the dough's moisture by adding a little water as needed. The goal is to achieve a cohesive dough; I added around 10g of water. Ideally, maltose can be used to adjust the dough's moisture, minimizing water usage.
Let the dough rest for 15 minutes under plastic wrap to relax.
Roll the dough into strips and cut into pieces. The size of each piece is a personal preference; smaller pieces make for delightful bite-sized treats.
Coat the pieces in sesame seeds by briefly rolling them in water and then covering them with sesame seeds. This prevents sesame seeds from falling off during frying.
Heat oil to 160°C, turn off the heat, and then add the prepared dough. The high temperature causes baking soda to release gas rapidly, expanding the dough and creating the signature "Smiling" shape. Turning off the heat lowers the oil temperature, preventing excessive expansion. The key is to control the initial frying temperature!
Once they start floating, turn on the heat and continue frying on low heat until the color begins to darken. Increase the heat, expel absorbed oil, and fry until they exhibit a light golden hue. Remove and let them cool for an irresistibly crispy texture.
"Smiling Delights" symbolize constant happiness, and Alee wishes everyone, "May your days be filled with joy, and may you always wear a smile!"
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