Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Special equipment needed:
- Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Gradually add the warm water while stirring the mixture until it forms a dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for about an hour until it doubles in size.
5. Punch down the dough and knead it again for a few minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
7. Flatten each ball into a disc shape, then brush the surface with vegetable oil.
8. Sprinkle minced garlic and chopped scallions on top of each disc.
9. Fold the disc in half and press the edges to seal.
10. Place the mantou in a steamer basket or bamboo steamer, leaving some space between each one.
11. Cover the steamer and let the mantou rise for about 15 minutes.
12. Steam the mantou over high heat for 15-20 minutes until they become fluffy and cooked through.
13. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Steaming temperature: high heat
Serving size:
- Makes 12 mantou
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 132
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 101mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of sugar.
- Green onions can be used instead of scallions.
Variations:
- Add minced ginger or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Stuff the mantou with meat or vegetable fillings.
- Brush the mantou with egg wash before steaming for a shiny finish.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is well-kneaded to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Use warm water to activate the yeast.
- Don't overcrowd the steamer basket to allow the mantou to rise properly.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover mantou can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the mantou in a steamer for a few minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the mantou on a plate and garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds.
Garnishes:
- Chopped scallions or sesame seeds
Pairings:
- Serve with soy sauce or hoisin sauce for dipping.
Suggested side dishes:
- Stir-fried vegetables or rice
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the mantou are too dense, make sure they have enough time to rise before steaming.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the dough is cooked through before serving.
Food history:
- Mantou is a traditional Chinese steamed bun that dates back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC).
Flavor profiles:
- The mantou has a soft and fluffy texture with a savory garlic and scallion flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or appetizer.
Related Categories
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Region: Chinese
Taste: Savory, Garlicky, Oniony, Umami, Comforting