Steamed buns are a delightful treat that hails from Asian cuisine, bringing a soft and pillowy sensation that can elevate any meal. These little bags of joy are not just tasty; they are also versatile, allowing you to fill them with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy bun filled with sweet potato and fragrant spices. It’s comfort food at its finest! Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will have you making steamed buns at home in no time.
What You’ll Need for Steamed Buns
Here’s everything you’ll need to create your own delicious steamed buns:
- 250 g (about 2 cups) all-purpose flour T1 or semi-coarse whole wheat flour
- 8 g (about 1.5 tsp) baking powder
- 15 g (about 2 tsp) malted barley
- 160 ml (about 2/3 cup) oat milk
- Salt, to taste
- A few drops of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium sweet potato (cooked and chopped)
- Gochugaru (Korean chili powder, to taste)
- Minced garlic (to taste)
- Nutritional yeast (to taste)
How to Make Steamed Buns
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your very own steamed buns in no time!
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, malted barley, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the oat milk, olive oil, and a few drops of lemon juice. Mix until a smooth and elastic dough forms.
- Let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes in a warm place. This helps it soften and makes it easier to work with.
- In a separate bowl, mash the cooked sweet potato and stir in the gochugaru, minced garlic, salt, and nutritional yeast. Mix well until combined.
- Divide the rested dough into equal pieces and roll them into small balls.
- Flatten each ball into a disk shape on a clean surface.
- Spoon some of the sweet potato filling onto the center of each disk, then carefully fold the edges over to create a typical dumpling shape. Pinch and seal the edges tightly.
- Cut small squares of parchment paper and place a bun on each piece to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the buns in a steamer and steam over boiling water for about 15 minutes.
- Once done, turn off the heat and let the buns sit for a few minutes before removing the lid. This helps keep them fluffy.
- Carefully take off the parchment paper and serve warm with your favorite sauce or dip.
How to Serve Steamed Buns
Steamed buns are best enjoyed fresh and warm. You can pair them with a variety of sauces or dips to enhance their flavor. Soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or a simple spicy chili oil can bring out the savory tones of your buns. For a colorful plate, consider serving them alongside sautéed vegetables or a light salad. These buns can be a fantastic appetizer or a delightful snack on their own!
Expert Tips for Steamed Buns
- Dough Consistency: Make sure your dough is smooth but not too stiff. If it feels dry, a little extra oat milk can help.
- Fillings Galore: Feel free to experiment with different fillings! You can use sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or your favorite vegetables if you want variety.
- Add Spice: For more heat, increase the amount of gochugaru or add a few drops of chili oil to your filling mix.
Steamed Buns FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
How do I know when the buns are done?
The buns will expand and become light and fluffy. They should appear smooth and shiny on the surface once they are fully cooked.
Can I freeze steamed buns?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, steam them directly from the freezer without thawing.
Steamed buns are not just a treat they’re a delicious activity! With this easy recipe, you can stir, steam, and enjoy these delightful pockets of flavor at home. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your version of this fantastic dish!