Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved.
2. Add all-purpose flour and salt to the mixing bowl. 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 greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Punch down the dough and knead it again for 2-3 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions and roll them into balls.
7. Flatten each ball with a rolling pin and place a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese in the center.
8. Pinch the edges of the dough to seal the cheese inside and shape it into a ball again.
9. Place the mantou in a steamer basket or bamboo steamer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
10. Steam the mantou for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through.
11. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
Steam at medium-high heat.
Serving size:
This recipe makes 8-10 mantou.
Nutritional information:
Each mantou contains approximately 150 calories, 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 3g fat, and 1g fiber.
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer.
- You can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture.
Variations:
- You can add chopped scallions or garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
- You can use different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- You can add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed in the dough to prevent it from leaking out during steaming.
- Do not overcrowd the steamer basket or bamboo steamer to ensure even cooking.
- You can freeze the uncooked mantou for later use.
Storage instructions:
Store the cooked mantou in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Steam the refrigerated mantou for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the mantou on a plate or bamboo steamer for an authentic look.
Garnishes:
You can sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top of the mantou for added flavor and texture.
Pairings:
Mantou with cheese pairs well with hot and sour soup or stir-fried vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the mantou with a side of steamed rice or noodles.
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 manageable.
Food safety advice:
Make sure the cheese is fully cooked before serving to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Mantou is a traditional Chinese steamed bun that dates back to the Zhou dynasty (1046-256 BC).
Flavor profiles:
Mantou with cheese has a soft and fluffy texture with a savory and cheesy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the mantou as an appetizer or snack.
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Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Comforting