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
- 1 cup red bean paste
Special equipment needed:
- Steamer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the warm water to the bowl and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough back in the mixing bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rest for 1 hour in a warm place.
5. After 1 hour, punch down the dough and knead it for another 5 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
7. Flatten each ball with your palm and place a tablespoon of red bean paste in the center.
8. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the red bean paste inside.
9. Place each filled dough ball on a small square of parchment paper.
10. Place the filled dough balls in a steamer basket, leaving some space between them.
11. Cover the steamer basket with a lid and steam the mantou for 15-20 minutes.
12. Remove the steamer basket from the heat and let the mantou cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Steamer: Medium heat
Serving size:
- 12 pieces
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Red bean paste can be substituted with other sweet fillings such as chocolate, peanut butter, or fruit preserves.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of milk to the dough for a softer texture.
- Add 1 tsp of sesame oil to the dough for a nutty flavor.
- Add 1 tsp of matcha powder to the dough for a green tea flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is well-kneaded to ensure a smooth texture.
- Use warm water to activate the yeast and help the dough rise.
- Use a damp cloth to cover the dough while it rests to prevent it from drying out.
- Place the filled dough balls on parchment paper to prevent them from sticking to the steamer basket.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover mantou in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, steam the mantou for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the mantou on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Arrange the mantou in a circle on a plate with a dollop of whipped cream in the center.
Garnishes:
- Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
- Top with sliced fruit or berries.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or bok choy.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more warm water.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the red bean paste is fully cooked before filling the mantou.
- Store leftover mantou in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
- Mantou is a traditional Chinese steamed bun that dates back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BCE).
Flavor profiles:
- The mantou has a soft and fluffy texture with a slightly sweet flavor from the red bean paste filling.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the mantou as a dessert or snack.
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Region: Chinese