Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Intensity: Moderate
Yield: 12 buns
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground pork (or substitute with ground chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking the filling)
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Cook Filling:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground pork and cook until browned. Stir in the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and green onions. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Assemble the Buns:
- Divide Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Stuff Buns:
- Roll each piece of dough into a ball, then flatten it into a disk about 4 inches in diameter. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each disk. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal the filling inside. Place the buns seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Cook the Buns:
- Steam Buns:
- Prepare a steamer by lining the steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Place the buns in the steamer, leaving space between them to expand. Steam over boiling water for 15 minutes.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- Mix Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, chili flakes (if using), and chopped cilantro. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
6. Serve:
- Plate and Serve:
- Serve the savoury stuffed buns hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 9g
Tips for Perfect Savoury Stuffed Buns:
- Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is smooth and elastic after kneading for the best texture.
- Sealing Buns: Make sure to pinch the dough tightly to seal the filling to prevent it from leaking during steaming.
- Steaming: Do not overcrowd the steamer. Steam the buns in batches if necessary to allow for even cooking.
Enjoy these delicious Chinese-style savoury stuffed buns as a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion!