How To Make Steamed Pork Buns Like A Pro – A Step-by-step Guide!

Are you craving the soft, fluffy goodness of steamed pork buns? Look no further! This detailed guide will walk you through the intricacies of making these delectable treats from scratch.

Ingredients for the Dough

For the dough:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water

For the filling:

• 1 pound (450g) ground pork
• 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15g) cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground black pepper
• 2 green onions, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water while stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Making the Filling

1. In a separate bowl, combine the ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, black pepper, and green onions.
2. Mix well and set aside while the dough rises.

Shaping the Buns

1. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air.
2. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
3. Roll out each piece into a 3-inch (7.5cm) circle.
4. Place about 2 tablespoons of the pork filling in the center of each circle.
5. Bring the edges of the dough together and pinch them tightly to seal the buns.

Steaming the Buns

1. Line a steamer with parchment paper.
2. Place the buns in the steamer, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5cm) apart.
3. Steam the buns for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

Tips for Perfection

• For a fluffier bun, let the dough rise for longer.
• For a chewier bun, reduce the rising time.
• If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a bamboo steamer or a metal colander placed over a pot of boiling water.
• Serve the buns immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Variations

• Vegetable Pork Buns: Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the pork filling.
• Shrimp Pork Buns: Replace the ground pork with chopped shrimp.
• Vegetarian Buns: Omit the pork and use tofu or tempeh as a substitute.
• Sweet Buns: Fill the buns with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and chopped fruit.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauce: Serve the buns with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or a combination of both.
• Sides: Pair the buns with steamed vegetables, rice, or noodles.
• Snacks: Enjoy the buns as a quick and satisfying snack.

The Ultimate Guide to Steamed Pork Buns

This guide provides everything you need to know about how to make steamed pork buns. From the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to variations and serving suggestions, we’ve covered it all. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of homemade steamed pork buns.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. How can I make the buns even fluffier?

• Let the dough rise for longer, up to 2 hours.
• Steam the buns for a longer period, up to 15 minutes.

2. What if I don’t have a steamer?

• You can use a bamboo steamer or a metal colander placed over a pot of boiling water.
• You can also steam the buns in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water at the bottom.

3. How long can I keep the buns?

• The buns are best served fresh, but they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the buns in a steamer or microwave before serving.