Unlock The Secrets: How To Steam Bbq Pork Buns Like A Chef!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of steamed BBQ pork buns, a staple of Cantonese cuisine. This delectable treat combines the savory sweetness of BBQ pork with the fluffy softness of steamed buns. With a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the BBQ Pork Filling:

• 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Bun Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water (110-115°F)

Instructions:

#1. Prepare the BBQ Pork Filling

1. Combine the pork shoulder, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water in a bowl.
2. Mix well until the pork is evenly coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

#2. Make the Bun Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with plastic wrap.
5. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

#3. Assemble the Buns

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
2. Roll out each piece of dough into a circle about 4 inches in diameter.
3. Place a spoonful of the BBQ pork filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold the edges of the dough up and around the filling, pleating as you go.
5. Pinch the top of the bun to seal it.

#4. Steam the Buns

1. Line a steamer with parchment paper or a cheesecloth-lined bamboo steamer.
2. Place the buns in the steamer and leave about 2 inches of space between them.
3. Bring a pot of water to a boil and place the steamer over the pot.
4. Cover and steam the buns for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.

#5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the buns from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Buns:

• Use high-quality hoisin sauce for maximum flavor.
• Do not overfill the buns, as this can prevent them from steaming evenly.
• Make sure the water is boiling before placing the buns in the steamer.
• If you do not have a steamer, you can use a colander lined with parchment paper and placed over a pot of boiling water.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use ground pork instead of pork shoulder?
A: Yes, you can use ground pork, but it will not have the same texture as pork shoulder.

Q: How can I make the buns vegetarian?
A: Substitute the BBQ pork filling with a mixture of tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables.

Q: Can I freeze the steamed buns?
A: Yes, you can freeze the steamed buns for up to 2 months. Reheat them in a steamer or microwave before serving.

Q: What are some other fillings I can use?
A: You can use various fillings such as char siu (roast pork), chicken, or seafood.

Q: Can I steam the buns without a steamer?
A: Yes, you can use a colander lined with parchment paper and placed over a pot of boiling water.

Q: How can I make the buns gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.