Asian > Chinese Bakery > Taro Buns

Taro Bun with Coconut Custard Filling Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 cups mashed taro root
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Small bowl
- Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add the vegetable oil and warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flatten each ball with a rolling pin.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
8. In a separate bowl, mash the taro root until it is smooth.
9. Add the coconut milk mixture to the mashed taro root and mix until combined.
10. Place a tablespoon of the taro mixture in the center of each flattened dough ball.
11. Fold the edges of the dough up and around the filling to form a bun.
12. Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and bake for 15 minutes.

Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 12 buns

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Protein: 2 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with coconut oil.
- Coconut milk can be substituted with almond milk.
- Cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot powder.

Variations:
- The filling can be varied by using different types of mashed root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or yams.
- The buns can be flavored with spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to roll the dough balls out evenly so that the buns bake evenly.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.

Storage Instructions:
The buns can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The buns can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
The buns can be served on a platter with a side of coconut custard sauce.

Garnishes:
The buns can be garnished with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts.

Pairings:
The buns can be served with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
The buns can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the buns are not baking evenly, make sure to roll out the dough balls evenly.
- If the buns are not rising, make sure to use fresh baking powder.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and cook the buns thoroughly before serving.

Food History:
Taro buns are a traditional Chinese snack that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Flavor Profiles:
The buns have a sweet and savory flavor with a hint of coconut.

Serving Suggestions:
The buns can be served as an appetizer or snack.

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Region: Hawaiian

Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Coconutty