Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice wine
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1/2 cup diced char siu pork
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Steamer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the oil, water, honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, sugar, garlic, five-spice powder, ginger, and white pepper.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten into a disc.
7. Place a tablespoon of char siu pork in the center of each disc.
8. Pinch the edges of the dough together to form a sealed pocket around the pork.
9. Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for expansion.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Place the buns in a steamer and steam for 10 minutes.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
Serving Size: 12 buns
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 200
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 6 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the char siu pork, you can substitute diced cooked chicken or beef.
- For the vegetable oil, you can substitute melted butter or coconut oil.
- For the honey, you can substitute agave nectar or maple syrup.
Variations:
- For a sweeter version, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the dough.
- For a spicier version, add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes to the dough.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the char siu pork and replace it with diced vegetables.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- For a softer texture, steam the buns for an additional 5 minutes.
Storage Instructions:
The buns can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
The buns can be reheated in a steamer for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
The buns can be served on a platter with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Garnishes:
The buns can be garnished with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and/or cilantro.
Pairings:
The buns can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.
Suggested Side Dishes:
The buns can be served with a side of steamed vegetables, a salad, or a bowl of soup.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food History:
Char siu bao is a traditional Chinese steamed bun filled with char siu pork. It is believed to have originated in the Guangdong province of China.
Flavor Profiles:
The buns have a savory and sweet flavor with hints of garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder.
Serving Suggestions:
The buns can be served as an appetizer or as a main course.
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Region: Chinese