| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| 2.5 cups of All-Purpose Flour | 1/4 cup of Cornstarch |
| 1/4 cup of White Sugar | 1.5 cups of Water |
| 1/2 cup of Sesame Seeds | 2 cups of Vegetable Oil for Frying |
| 1 cup of Honey | 1/2 cup of Brown Sugar |
| 1 teaspoon of Lemon Juice | 1 cup of Melted Butter |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 1127.6 | 60.9g | 37.41g | 136.8g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 68.61g | 3.9g | 12g | 0.012g |
About Saqima
Bringing a thrust of richness and the finest oriental flavors, we’re setting the stage for Saqima. Nothing embodies the rich, harmonious blend of Eastern and Western flavors quite like this flavorful treat. The journey of Saqima is an interesting one, from its humble beginnings in traditional Chinese cuisine to earning its rightful place at fine dining tables worldwide. 
Exploring the Culinary History of Saqima
The word ‘Saqima’, also spelled as “Sachima”, is a Chinese name embedded in rich history that directly translates to ‘thread twisted crisp’ in English. Known as a staple food item in many traditional festivities, Saqima is a splendidly appealing bread-like dessert.
Native to the Manchu tribe of Northeast China, Saqima was traditionally prepared and relished on significant occasions. The treat has an entrancing appeal when served on the dining table and is often compared to American rice crispy treats given their similar flaky and crispy texture.
The Alluring Taste of Saqima
The spectacular textures of Saqima make it a delight to indulge in. The bread has a unique combination of a flaky interior and a crispy exterior by being fried to perfection. The deep-frying process accentuates the taste, rendering a delightful crunchiness.
The harmony achieved by combining simple ingredients like flour, sugar, sesame seeds, and water is simply spectacular. The addition of lemon juice and honey not only lends it its characteristic sweetness but also gives it a subtle, refreshing tanginess.
This mouthwatering dessert is generously coated with a buttery, glistening glaze that ensures a perfect layering of sticky sweetness. Its decadent flavor compounds with every bite, making this wonderful delight incredibly irresistible. Be prepared for its melting, buttery taste to take you for a ride on the gourmet train.
Saqima: The Perfect Companion to Your Preferred Brew
Saqima beautifully complements a plethora of dishes and beverages. It’s a well-known pairing with traditional Chinese teas like Oolong or Longjing.
A hot brew combined with the sweet, crunchy goodness of Saqima brightens up any conversations, be it over a casual afternoon tea gathering or a bustling evening party.
Beyond its unique standalone taste, Saqima can also be paired with savory dishes, such as stir-fried vegetables, sweet and sour meat, or Kung Pao chicken. The hearty savory flavor of these dishes when contrasted with the sweet, flaky Saqima results in a harmonious symphony of delectable tastes.
What You’ll Need
- 2.5 cups of All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup of Cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of White Sugar
- 1.5 cups of Water
- 1/2 cup of Sesame Seeds
- 2 cups of Vegetable Oil for Frying
- 1 cup of Honey
- 1/2 cup of Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon of Lemon Juice
- 1 cup of Melted Butter
Method
Step One
Firstly, combine 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of white sugar in a large bowl. Stir them together until they are evenly mixed.
Step Two
Add in 1.5 cups of water progressively and stir the mix until it forms a soft dough. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 15 minutes.
Step Three
After resting the dough, roll it out into a thin layer. Cut the rolled-out dough into narrow strips.
Step Four
Pour 1/2 cup of sesame seeds onto a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Allow them to cool.
Step Five
Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the strips of dough until they are crisp and golden brown. Drain the fried dough on paper towels and set aside.
Step Six
In a separate saucepan, combine 1 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Stir them over low heat until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Step Seven
Add the fried dough strips into the honey mixture in the saucepan. Stir thoroughly until every piece is coated with the sweet syrup.
Step Eight
Remove from the heat and mix in the toasted sesame seeds. Then pour the mixture onto a greased flat tray. Use a rolling pin or spatula to press it down evenly.
Step Nine
Finally, pour the melted butter evenly over the top. Let it cool and harden before cutting into squares to serve.
Step Ten
Enjoy your homemade Saqima!
