Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Special equipment needed:
- Steamer basket
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, warm water, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough back in the mixing bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. After 30 minutes, add the mashed banana and chocolate chips to the dough. Mix well.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
6. Flatten each ball with a rolling pin and place a spoonful of the chocolate-banana mixture in the center.
7. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside.
8. Cut 8 squares of parchment paper and place each nikuman on a square.
9. Place the nikuman in a steamer basket and steam for 15 minutes.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Steamer basket: High heat
Serving size:
8 nikuman
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 200
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Dark chocolate chips can be used instead of milk chocolate chips.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of granulated sugar.
Variations:
- Peanut butter and jelly nikuman: Replace the chocolate-banana filling with peanut butter and jelly.
- Savory nikuman: Replace the chocolate-banana filling with ground pork, cabbage, and soy sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is well-kneaded to ensure a soft and fluffy texture.
- Use ripe bananas for a sweeter flavor.
- Don't overfill the nikuman or it may burst open during steaming.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover nikuman in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat nikuman in the microwave or steamer for a few minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve nikuman on a plate with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the nikuman.
Pairings:
Serve nikuman with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- Miso soup
- Edamame
- Seaweed 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, make sure to seal the edges tightly.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the nikuman thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
Nikuman is a popular Japanese snack that originated in China.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, chocolatey, and banana-flavored.
Serving suggestions:
Serve nikuman as a snack or appetizer.
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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Chocolatey, Fruity