Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Steamer basket
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. After 30 minutes, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
6. Flatten each ball with a rolling pin into a circle about 4 inches in diameter.
7. Place a tablespoon of crumbled bacon and a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of each circle.
8. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside.
9. Place each nikuman on a small square of parchment paper.
10. Arrange the nikuman in a steamer basket, leaving space between them to expand.
11. Steam the nikuman for 15-20 minutes until they are puffy and cooked through.
12. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
Steamer basket temperature: 100°C (212°F)
Serving size:
8 nikuman
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 3.5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 6g
Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of bacon, you can use ham or sausage.
- Instead of cheddar cheese, you can use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese.
Variations:
- You can add chopped scallions or diced onions to the filling.
- You can use different types of cheese or a combination of cheeses.
- You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and adding more cheese or vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is well-kneaded and rested before rolling it out.
- Don't overfill the nikuman or they may burst open during steaming.
- Use a steamer basket with a lid to keep the steam inside and cook the nikuman evenly.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover nikuman in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze nikuman, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat nikuman, steam them for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- You can also microwave them for 30-60 seconds on high power.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve nikuman on a platter with a dipping sauce such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.
- Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds.
Pairings:
- Nikuman pairs well with green tea or a light beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve nikuman with a side of steamed rice or a salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the nikuman burst open during steaming, try sealing the edges more tightly.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the filling is cooked before steaming the nikuman.
- Use a food thermometer to check that the filling has reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Food history:
- Nikuman is a type of Chinese steamed bun that was introduced to Japan in the late 19th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Cheese and bacon nikuman has a savory and slightly salty flavor with a hint of sweetness from the dough.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve nikuman as a snack or appetizer, or as a main dish with a side of rice and vegetables.
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Region: Japanese