Bua Loy Nam Khing

This comforting Thai dessert pairs soft, chewy sesame glutinous balls with a fragrant, mildly spicy ginger syrup. Served warm, it is soothing, aromatic, and especially welcome on cool evenings or after a rich meal. The ginger broth is simple but deeply flavorful, highlighting the contrast between the syrup’s warmth and the tender, nutty rice balls.

Ingredients

Sesame Glutinous Balls:

• 1 recipe Sesame Glutinous Balls, prepared (or one 15-count package frozen sesame glutinous balls)

Ginger Syrup:

• 7 cups (1650 ml) water
• 2 cups (400 g) packed brown sugar (or use half brown sugar, half palm sugar for a more traditional flavor)
• ¼ tsp table salt
• 4 inches (10 cm) fresh ginger, peeled, sliced into coins, and lightly bruised

Garnish:

• 1–2 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Make the Ginger Syrup

In a medium pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the sugars and salt, stirring until dissolved. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, then add the bruised ginger slices. Simmer 15–25 minutes until the syrup becomes fragrant, slightly spicy, and a deep amber color. Taste and adjust for strength; simmer longer for stronger ginger flavor.

Finish the Dessert

Remove from heat and strain out the ginger slices. Add the prepared sesame glutinous balls to the warm syrup and allow them to heat through for 2–3 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the warm syrup and glutinous balls into small bowls. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Notes

Preparation

• Palm sugar deepens the flavor and gives the syrup a more traditional Thai character.
• Lightly bruising the ginger releases more flavor without overpowering the syrup.
• If using frozen sesame balls, boil them until they float before adding to the syrup.

Serving Suggestions

• Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy variation.
• Serve with extra toasted sesame seeds for added aroma.
• Pair with fresh fruit like sliced pear or steamed pumpkin for contrast.

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Ginger syrup keeps up to 5 days refrigerated.
• Store glutinous balls separately to maintain texture.
• Rewarm syrup gently; add balls immediately before serving.