Binangkal Recipe
There is nothing quite like the warm, nutty delight of the Binangkal Recipe, a beloved Filipino sesame ball treat that brings simple ingredients together into crispy, golden spheres of joy. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a sweet finish, these little fried gems pack a pleasing crunch on the outside and a tender, subtly sweet bite on the inside. The sesame seeds add a toasty aroma that invites you to savor every mouthful and makes this recipe a staple for street food lovers and home cooks alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Binangkal Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, but each component plays an essential role in delivering the classic taste and texture. From the fluffy, sugary dough to the fragrant sesame coating, everything comes together beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to the dough and a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the dough rises slightly, keeping the balls light instead of dense.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile by balancing sweetness.
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk: Rich and creamy, it brings moisture and depth to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together, helping the dough hold its shape during frying.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or margarine: Adds a subtle richness and tenderizes the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Delivers a warm, inviting note that elevates the flavor.
- 1 cup sesame seeds: The signature crunchy coating that adds texture and a toasty flavor.
- 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil for deep frying: Needed to achieve that perfect golden crispness.
How to Make Binangkal Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution, setting the stage for a perfectly balanced dough.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the evaporated milk, crack in the egg, add the melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the mixture forms a soft dough that is easy to handle but not too sticky. This dough is what will become your binangkal balls.
Step 3: Shape and Coat
Using your hands, scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Then, generously roll each ball in sesame seeds until completely covered. This coating not only looks fantastic but adds that essential nutty crunch to each bite.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully add the sesame-coated dough balls in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for approximately 4 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn a beautiful golden brown all over. Once cooked, transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.
How to Serve Binangkal Recipe
Garnishes
Binangkal are wonderful on their own, but to make them extra special, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt or dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a sweet-salty contrast that enhances the flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these sesame balls with hot tea or coffee for a truly comforting snack experience. They also complement fresh fruit slices or a light custard for a more substantial dessert offering.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, arrange your binangkal on a colorful platter lined with banana leaves, or serve them in small bamboo baskets for an authentic Filipino street food vibe. You can also skewer a few together for a fun party treat presentation that’s easy to grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any binangkal left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. They’re best enjoyed fresh but will maintain a decent texture for snacking the next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze binangkal, it’s best to do so before frying. Place the shaped and sesame-coated dough balls on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, fry them straight from frozen for a fresh-tasting snack.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the binangkal in a low oven or toaster oven at 300°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it could make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk, but evaporated milk adds richness and a slight caramelized flavor that makes the binangkal extra special.
What if I don’t have baking powder?
Baking powder helps the dough puff slightly; if you don’t have it, the texture might be a bit denser, but your binangkal will still be tasty.
Are there any alternatives to sesame seeds?
While sesame seeds are traditional and iconic to binangkal, you could try rolled oats or crushed nuts for a different crunch, but the flavor will change.
Can I bake binangkal instead of frying?
Frying gives binangkal their signature crispiness, but baking them at a high temperature could work if you prefer a lighter version, though the texture will differ.
How do I know when binangkal are fully cooked?
They’re done when golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside. Frying at medium heat ensures even cooking without burning the outside.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Binangkal Recipe is like embracing a little piece of Filipino culinary heritage that delights with every bite. It’s simple, utterly delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Once you make these crispy sesame balls at home, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to snacks or desserts. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and let the fun begin!
Print
Binangkal Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Binangkal is a classic Filipino fried dessert featuring sesame-coated dough balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect as a snack or treat, these golden sesame balls are lightly sweetened and deep-fried to perfection, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that capture the essence of traditional Filipino street food.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or margarine
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating and Frying
- 1 cup sesame seeds
- 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the evaporated milk, egg, melted butter or margarine, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until a soft, cohesive dough forms, suitable for shaping into balls.
- Shape the Dough Balls: Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball using your hands. Repeat this process for the entire dough.
- Coat with Sesame Seeds: Roll each dough ball in sesame seeds until fully coated, pressing gently to ensure the seeds adhere well to the surface.
- Heat Oil for Frying: Pour 2 to 3 cups of vegetable oil into a deep pan and heat over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle a small piece of dough immediately but not so hot as to burn the exterior before the inside cooks.
- Deep Fry Binangkal: Carefully place the sesame-coated dough balls into the hot oil in batches. Fry, turning occasionally, to ensure even browning. Cook each batch for about 4 to 6 minutes or until they turn a rich golden brown color and are cooked through.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried binangkal with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain their crispiness.
- Serve Warm: Serve the binangkal while still warm for the best texture and flavor. They can be enjoyed as snack or dessert.
Notes
- Maintain medium heat while frying to ensure binangkal cook evenly without burning.
- These sesame balls are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in an airtight container for up to one day to retain freshness.
- Adjust sugar according to your preferred level of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Filipino