Desserts, Street Snacks 0 comments

Taiwanese Taro Balls: A Chewy & Sweet Delight!

Cooks in 30 Difficulty Medium

Taiwanese Taro Balls: A Chewy & Sweet Delight!

Recipe by eva@becomingsolo.com
Course: dessert
Servings

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

180

kcal
Total time

30

minutes

Ingredients

  • Taro Balls:
  • 300 g taro, peeled and cubed

  • 100 g sweet potato starch (or tapioca starch)

  • 30 g sugar

  • 50 ml hot water (adjust as needed)

  • Sweet Ginger Syrup (Optional):
  • 500 ml water

  • 100 g brown sugar

  • 3 slices ginger

  • Optional Toppings:
  • Red beans

  • Grass jelly

  • Condensed milk

  • Coconut milk

  • Shaved ice

Directions

  • Step 1: Steam the Taro
  • Peel and cut the taro into small cubes.
  • Place the taro cubes in a steamer and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
  • Transfer the hot taro to a large mixing bowl and mash it into a smooth paste while still warm.
  • Step 2: Make the Dough
  • Add sugar to the mashed taro and mix well.
  • Gradually add sweet potato starch while mixing.
  • Slowly pour in hot water, a little at a time, and knead the dough until it forms a smooth, non-sticky consistency. If too dry, add more hot water; if too sticky, add a little more starch.
  • Step 3: Shape the Taro Balls
  • Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion into a long rope (~1cm thick).
  • Cut into small bite-sized pieces (~1.5cm each).
  • Lightly dust the taro balls with extra starch to prevent sticking.
  • Step 4: Cook the Taro Balls
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  • Add the taro balls and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes).
  • Once they float, continue cooking for another 1 minute for extra chewiness.
  • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked taro balls into a bowl of cold water.
  • Step 5: Make the Sweet Ginger Syrup (Optional)
  • In a pot, combine water, brown sugar, and ginger slices.
  • Simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, then strain out the ginger slices.
  • Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
  • Drain the taro balls and serve them warm with ginger syrup or chilled with shaved ice and toppings of your choice.
  • Drizzle with coconut milk or condensed milk for an extra indulgent treat!

Notes

  • Pro Tip:
    For extra color and variety, substitute half the taro with purple sweet potato or pumpkin to make three-color taro balls (芋圆三色).
    These taro balls store frozen for up to 1 month. Simply cook them directly from frozen when ready to eat!
    Now, grab your bowl and enjoy these delicious Taiwanese taro balls! 🥣💜

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*