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Fluffy Chinese Steamed Char

Fluffy Chinese Steamed Char: Amazing Recipe

  • Author: basmer1517
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 Buns 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Learn how to make incredibly fluffy Chinese steamed char siu bao, also known as steamed pork buns. This recipe features a tender, sweet pork filling encased in soft, cloud-like bao buns, perfect for dim sum or a delightful snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Dough:
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • For the Sweet Char Siu Pork Filling:
  • 1 pound Chinese BBQ pork (char siu), diced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon five spice powder
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add oil, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  5. Prepare the Filling: Dice the char siu pork. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  6. Add the pork and stir in oyster sauce, soy sauce, hoisin, sugar, and five spice powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the mixture until glossy and slightly sticky. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil. Let the filling cool completely.
  8. Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and cover with a damp towel.
  9. Flatten each ball into a 4-inch disk, keeping the center slightly thicker. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into the center.
  10. Gather the edges and pleat them up, twisting to seal the top. Place each bun seam-side down on a square of parchment paper.
  11. Let the shaped buns rest for another 20 minutes to puff up slightly.
  12. Steam the Buns: Bring water to a boil in your steamer. Arrange the buns on their parchment squares in the steamer, leaving space between them.
  13. Cover and steam for 12-15 minutes over medium-high heat. Do not open the lid during steaming.
  14. Turn off the heat and let the buns sit for 2 minutes before removing the lid.

Notes

  • A bamboo steamer is ideal for authentic results.
  • Ensure the filling is completely cool before stuffing the buns.
  • Do not open the steamer lid during the steaming process to prevent the buns from collapsing.
  • Allowing the buns to rest for 2 minutes after steaming helps maintain their texture.
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bun

Keywords: Fluffy Chinese Steamed Char, steamed pork buns, char siu bao, Chinese steamed buns, soft bao buns, dim sum, steamed buns recipe

Find it online: https://www.recipesmollybaz.com/fluffy-chinese-steamed-char-recipe/