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Steamed Buns

Steamed Buns
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Learn how to make soft, fluffy steamed buns at home with this easy step-by-step recipe perfect for beginners and pros alike. These versatile buns use simple pantry ingredients and can be customized with sweet or savory fillings. Achieve light, pillowy buns that rival your favorite restaurant’s, ideal for appetizers or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Dough Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 3/4 cup warm water or milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (to activate yeast)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

Optional Fillings and Variations

  • Classic pork filling: ground pork, soy sauce, spices
  • Vegetarian filling: mushrooms, tofu, or mixed vegetables
  • Sweet red bean paste filling
  • Gluten-free option: gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast baking
  • Herbs for dough: finely chopped scallions, cilantro, or other fresh herbs

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine the active dry yeast with warm water or milk and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is activated and ready to use.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil or melted butter while stirring until a soft dough forms. Adjust with small additions of flour if the dough is too sticky.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten and gives the buns their tender yet chewy texture.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size, creating a light and airy dough.
  5. Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough to release excess air. Divide into equal pieces according to your preferred bun size. Shape each piece into a smooth ball. If using fillings, flatten each piece slightly, add filling, then pinch edges tightly to seal.
  6. Second Rise: Arrange shaped buns on parchment paper squares in a steamer basket, spacing them a few inches apart. Let them rest and rise again for 20 to 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
  7. Steam to Perfection: Set up your steamer with boiling water and steam buns over medium-high heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid opening the lid during steaming to retain moisture and heat for fluffy buns.

Notes

  • Adjust dough moisture by adding water or flour slightly based on humidity for a soft but manageable dough.
  • Don’t skip the second rise, which is essential for light, fluffy buns instead of dense ones.
  • Using a bamboo steamer helps steam circulate effectively and imparts a subtle aroma.
  • Line steamer trays with parchment paper squares to prevent sticking while allowing steam flow.
  • Maintain a steady boil and avoid opening the steamer lid to ensure even cooking and fluffiness.

Nutrition

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Find it online: https://mydishez.com/steamed-buns/