Oriental Palace - Authentic Cantonese & Peking Cuisine

Chinese steamed buns, also known as baozi and mantou, are a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine. These soft and fluffy buns can be enjoyed on their own or filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. If you’ve ever wondered how to make these delectable treats from scratch, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making Chinese steamed buns like a pro.

The History of Chinese Steamed Buns

Before we delve into the intricacies of making Chinese steamed buns, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history behind these culinary delights. Steamed buns have been a part of Chinese cuisine for centuries, with their origins dating back to the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD). Initially, they were called “mantou,” meaning “barbarian’s head,” as they resembled the shape of a traditional hairstyle worn by nomadic peoples.

Over time, the Chinese steamed bun evolved, and a new variety known as “baozi” emerged. Baozi refers specifically to steamed buns that are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as pork, vegetables, or even sweet bean paste. Today, both mantou and baozi are widely enjoyed across China and beyond, with countless variations and regional specialties.

The Art of Making Chinese Steamed Buns

Ingredients

To begin your journey in making Chinese steamed buns, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

1. All-purpose flour: 500 grams
2. Warm water: 280 milliliters
3. Active dry yeast: 7 grams
4. Sugar: 2 tablespoons
5. Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
6. Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
7. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for around 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Create a well in the center.
3. Pour the yeast mixture and vegetable oil into the well of the flour mixture.
4. Gradually mix the ingredients together, either with a spoon or your hands, until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rest in a warm place for approximately 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Shaping the Buns

1. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles.
2. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for a few minutes to remove excess air.
3. Divide the dough into smaller portions, roughly the size of a golf ball.
4. Take one portion and roll it out into a circle with a rolling pin, leaving the center slightly thicker than the edges.
5. Place your desired filling in the center of the circle, ensuring not to overstuff it.
6. Gather the edges of the dough and pleat them together to seal the bun, twisting the top slightly to secure the filling.
7. Repeat this process with the remaining portions of dough and filling.

Step 3: Steaming the Buns

1. Line a steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the shaped buns in the steamer, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion.
3. Cover the steamer with a lid and let the buns rise for an additional 15-20 minutes.
4. Fill a pot or wok with water and bring it to a boil.
5. Place the steamer basket on top of the pot or wok, ensuring that the water doesn’t touch the buns.
6. Steam the buns over high heat for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they become puffy and cooked through.

Step 4: Enjoying the Steamed Buns

1. Carefully remove the steamed buns from the steamer using tongs or a spatula.
2. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as they can be extremely hot.
3. Chinese steamed buns can be enjoyed as is, or you can pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or condiments.
4. Leftover steamed buns can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them by steaming for a few minutes.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to make Chinese steamed buns like a pro. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create your own fluffy and delicious buns that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you choose to make traditional mantou or experiment with various fillings for baozi, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary adventure to master the art of Chinese steamed buns. Get ready to savor the irresistible taste of these iconic treats right in the comfort of your own kitchen.