Steamed buns are a delicious and versatile option for brunch. They are soft, pillowy, and can be filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings.

In this easy steamed buns recipe, we will guide you through the process of making your own fluffy buns from scratch. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

To make these easy steamed buns, you will need the following ingredients:.

For the dough:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour.

– 2 teaspoons baking powder.

– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast.

– 1 tablespoon sugar.

– 1/2 teaspoon salt.

– 3/4 cup lukewarm water.

– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.

For the filling:

– Your choice of savory fillings such as minced pork, beef, chicken, or vegetables.

– Optional: additional ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, or spices to flavor the filling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, active dry yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Gradually add the lukewarm water to the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Once the mixture starts to come together, knead the dough with your hands until it forms a smooth and elastic ball. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

Likewise, if it feels too dry, add a splash of water.

Next, drizzle the vegetable oil over the dough ball and coat it evenly. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, you can start preparing the filling of your choice. This is where you can get creative and experiment with various flavors.

For instance, you can use minced pork or beef mixed with soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices for a savory option. Alternatively, you can go for a vegetarian filling by sautéing a mixture of vegetables with some garlic and ginger.

Cook your chosen filling on the stovetop until it is fully cooked and the flavors are well combined. Set it aside to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Buns

Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for a few minutes to create a smooth texture.

Divide the dough into small equal-sized portions, depending on how big you want your steamed buns to be. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it with your hand or a rolling pin to form a small circle.

Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together, sealing the filling inside. Repeat this process with the remaining portions of dough and filling.

Step 4: Steam the Buns

Line a steamer basket or bamboo steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent the buns from sticking. Place the assembled buns in the steamer, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion.

Fill a pot or wok with water and bring it to a boil. Carefully place the steamer basket on top of the pot, ensuring that the water does not touch the buns.

Cover the steamer and let the buns steam for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fluffy and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the steamed buns are cooked, remove them from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm and enjoy the soft and pillowy texture filled with your delicious savory or sweet filling.

These easy steamed buns can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or accompanied by a dipping sauce such as soy sauce or a chili sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Conclusion

Steamed buns are a delightful addition to any brunch menu. With this easy recipe, you can create your own batch of fluffy and mouthwatering buns that will impress your guests.

Feel free to get creative with the fillings and experiment with different flavors to make these buns truly your own. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in the joy of making homemade steamed buns!.