Crispy Sachima (Shaqima) Recipe

Sachima is a traditional snack originating from Northern China and is closely associated with Manchu cuisine. Over time, it has become one of the most popular sweet treats throughout northern regions of the country.

Today, Sachima can easily be found in supermarkets, bakeries, and snack stores across China.

Golden, crispy, and lightly sweet, this classic pastry is especially popular during Chinese New Year celebrations, when families gather to share homemade snacks and festive treats.

The good news is that making Sachima at home is surprisingly simple. The process requires no special skills, and the ingredients are easy to find. Follow the recipe below to create this delicious traditional dessert in your own kitchen.

Dough Ingredients

150g high-gluten flour

50g medium-gluten flour

2g baking powder

3 eggs

Syrup and Other Ingredients

120g sugar

100g maltose syrup (malt sugar)

35g water

2g salt

Cooking oil for deep-frying

Cooked white sesame seeds, as desired

Instructions

Step 1

Place the eggs, flour, and baking powder into a mixing bowl.

Step 2

Mix everything together by hand until a dough forms. The mixture may feel sticky at first, but it will gradually come together as you knead.

Step 3

Knead until smooth, then cover the dough with plastic wrap and allow it to rest for 30 minutes. If the dough feels too dry, add a small amount of beaten egg and continue kneading.

Step 4

Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking. Roll the rested dough into a large rectangle.

Step 5

Using a dough scraper or knife, cut the dough into thin strips about ½ cm wide. Thin strips produce a more attractive final texture after frying.

Step 6

Toss the strips with a little flour to keep them from sticking together during frying.

Step 7

Heat enough oil in a deep pan so the dough strips can be partially submerged. Fry only half the strips at a time to avoid overcrowding. Test the oil temperature by dropping in a small piece of dough.

Step 8

Use a strainer or skimmer to gently turn the strips several times while frying so they brown evenly.

Step 9

Once the strips are golden brown, remove them from the oil and drain thoroughly. Shake off any excess oil to help maintain a crisp texture.

Step 10

In a clean saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and salt. Heat until the sugar dissolves.

Step 11

Add the maltose syrup. Since maltose is very thick, using chopsticks can help transfer and dissolve it more easily.

Step 12

Continue cooking until the syrup reaches approximately 115°C. Stir occasionally, then add the fried dough strips to the pan. If the syrup is not hot enough, the final texture may not set properly.

Step 13

Mix thoroughly so every piece of fried dough is evenly coated with the syrup.

Step 14

Add the toasted white sesame seeds and toss again until evenly distributed.

Step 15

Transfer the mixture into a mold or baking pan. If using a regular pan, lightly grease it beforehand to prevent sticking.

Step 16

Press the mixture down firmly with your hands. You can also place a sheet of plastic wrap on top and weigh it down with a heavy object for better compression.

Step 17

Allow the Sachima to cool completely, then carefully invert the mold to release it.

Step 18

Remove the mold and admire the glossy, sweet-coated pastry block.

Step 19

Cut into small squares or rectangles and serve.

Enjoy Your Homemade Sachima

With its crisp texture, delicate sweetness, and beautiful golden appearance, Sachima is a timeless Chinese snack that is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Once cooled and sliced, it's ready to share with friends and loved ones.