Asian > Asian Bread > Lotus Seed Buns

Lotus Seed Buns with Caramelized Onions Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons lotus seeds
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the sugar and balsamic vinegar and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the flour, lotus seeds, baking powder, and salt.
4. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the warm water and vegetable oil.
Mix until a soft dough forms.
5. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for 5 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
7. Place the balls on a lightly greased baking sheet.
8. Flatten each ball with a rolling pin and top with the caramelized onions.
9. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
10. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 12 buns

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Protein: 4 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the vegetable oil, you can use olive oil or coconut oil.
- For the lotus seeds, you can use poppy seeds or sunflower seeds.

Variations:
- For a savory version, omit the sugar and balsamic vinegar and top the buns with grated cheese and chopped herbs.
- For a sweet version, omit the onions and top the buns with cinnamon sugar.

Tips and Tricks:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- For a crispier bun, brush the tops with melted butter before baking.

Storage Instructions:
Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the buns in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the buns on a platter with a selection of dipping sauces.

Garnishes:
Garnish the buns with chopped parsley or chives.

Pairings:
These buns pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the buns with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the buns are too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Food Safety Advice:
Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Food History:
Lotus seed buns are a traditional Chinese pastry that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Flavor Profiles:
These buns have a sweet and savory flavor with a hint of nuttiness from the lotus seeds.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the buns as an appetizer or snack.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Savory, Sweet, Caramelized, Oniony, Nutty