Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup black bean paste
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Special equipment needed:
- Steamer basket
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast. Mix well.
2. Add warm water and vegetable oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for 1 hour.
5. In a separate bowl, mix black bean paste, chopped scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
6. After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a disc shape.
8. Spoon a tablespoon of the black bean paste mixture onto the center of each disc.
9. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal the filling inside.
10. Place each bun on a square of parchment paper and put them in a steamer basket.
11. Steam the buns for 10-12 minutes until they are puffy and cooked through.
12. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
Steaming temperature: 212°F
Serving size:
8 bao buns
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 420mg
Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Green onions can be used instead of scallions.
- Hoisin sauce can be used instead of soy sauce.
Variations:
- Add shredded carrots or cabbage to the black bean paste mixture for added texture.
- Use a different type of filling, such as pork or chicken.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is well-kneaded to ensure a soft and fluffy texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
- Use a steamer basket with a lid to trap steam and cook the buns evenly.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover bao buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat bao buns in a steamer basket for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve bao buns on a bamboo steamer basket for an authentic touch.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds.
Pairings:
Serve with hot and sour soup or stir-fried vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed rice
- Egg rolls
- Edamame
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes easy to handle.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the black bean paste is cooked to a safe temperature of 165°F.
- Wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before handling food.
Food history:
Bao buns originated in China and are a popular street food in many Asian countries.
Flavor profiles:
The black bean paste filling is savory and slightly sweet, while the bao bun itself is soft and fluffy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve bao buns as an appetizer or as a main course with a side dish.
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Region: Chinese