The BEST Bao Steamed Buns Recipe

pork

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: tofu

Tofu is a plant-based option that is lower in calories.

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: bread flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber while bread flour gives a chewier texture.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a neutral-flavored alternative.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: tamari

💰Cheaper: coconut aminos

Coconut aminos is a soy-free alternative with a similar taste.

Combine 1/3 cup warm water and 1/2 cup warm milk in a bowl.

Add 1 tablespoon of active yeast and 2 tablespoons of sugar to the warm liquid; let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.

In a mixing bowl, combine 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar.

Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder to the dry ingredients.

Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and mix with a dough hook on medium-low speed until a dough forms.

Knead the dough until it is elastic and not sticking to your fingers, about 5-10 minutes.

Shape the dough into a ball and place it back in the bowl; cover and let it rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.

Use a 2.5 to 3.5 inch round cutter to cut out circles from the dough.

Let the dough circles rest for a bit before flattening them out.

Lightly oil the surface of the dough to prevent sticking when folding.

Fold the dough and gently roll it out again with light pressure.

Prepare a steamer lined with a coffee filter to prevent sticking.

Place the dough in the steamer, leaving about an inch of space between each piece.

Cover the dough with a kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent water from dripping on it.

Boil water in a wok and place the steamer on top, ensuring it does not touch the water.

Steam the buns for 8-10 minutes until they are fluffy, without opening the steamer during cooking.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens