Steamed Bun Recipe: Bomb Soft Buns in 3 Easy Steps

Learn to make bomb soft steamed bun recipe in just 3 steps with our easy recipe. Perfect for any meal, these buns are fluffy and delicious!

Steamed Bun Recipe: Bomb Soft Buns in 3 Easy Steps

When you think of comfort food, steamed buns often come to mind, offering a soft, fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with a variety of fillings. Known as 지세인이 패텐스 (jjinppang) in Korean, these buns are a staple in many Asian cuisines. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make perfectly soft steamed buns with a foolproof recipe, ensuring success in just three easy steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Steamed Buns

Before diving into the process, gather the following ingredients to make the dough and filling:

  • For the Dough:
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup warm water (around 100°F or 40°C)
    • 2 teaspoons dry yeast
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • For the Filling (with Kimchi):
    • 14 ounces ground pork
    • 1 cup chopped onion
    • 1/2 cup chopped carrot
    • 1 1/2 cups chopped zucchini
    • 1 1/2 cups chopped green onions or Asian chives
    • 2 cups chopped white mushrooms
    • 1 cup finely chopped kimchi
    • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Creating the perfect dough is crucial for soft, fluffy steamed buns. Follow these steps to prepare it:

dough being kneaded by hand on a floured marble countertop with kitchen utensils

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir until the yeast dissolves completely and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough: Add the salt and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour while mixing with a wooden spoon. Once the dough starts coming together, knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling (with Kimchi)

While the dough rises, prepare the savory filling. Here’s how to do it:

cooked ground pork and vegetables filling in a pan on a marble countertop

  1. Prepare the Vegetables and Kimchi: Chop the onion, carrot, zucchini, green onions, white mushrooms, and finely chop the kimchi. In a bowl, mix these vegetables with a teaspoon of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
  2. Cook the Pork: In a separate bowl, season the ground pork with soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sauté the pork until fully cooked.
  3. Combine and Cook: Squeeze out the excess water from the vegetables and kimchi using a clean cloth or cheesecloth. Add the vegetables and kimchi to the pan with the pork and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.

Step 3: Assembling and Steaming the Buns

Now that the dough and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble and steam the buns:

steamed buns in a steamer with steam rising, placed on a marble countertop

  1. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a disc about 4 inches in diameter.
  2. Fill the Buns: Place a tablespoon of the cooled filling in the center of each disc. Gather the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a bun. Place each bun seam-side down on a small square of parchment paper.
  3. Steam the Buns: Arrange the buns in a steamer, leaving space between them to expand. Cover and let them rest for 15 minutes. Steam over boiling water for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the buns sit for 5 minutes before removing the lid to prevent them from collapsing.

Tips for Achieving the Softest Buns

To ensure your steamed buns are soft and fluffy, keep these tips in mind:

  • Consistent Dough: Make sure the dough is well-kneaded and not too dry or too sticky. The right consistency is key to achieving that soft texture.
  • Proper Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size. Rushing this step can result in dense buns.
  • Steaming Technique: Use a steamer with a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam effectively. Avoid opening the lid during steaming, as this can cause the buns to deflate.

Nutritional Information for Steamed Buns

Each steamed bun contains approximately 200 calories, with 8 grams of protein, 6 grams of fat, and 28 grams of carbohydrates. The ground pork provides a good source of B-vitamins and iron, while the vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients. For a healthier version, consider using whole grain flour and leaner proteins like ground chicken or turkey.

FAQ Section

Can I Freeze Steamed Buns? Yes, you can freeze steamed buns. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container and freezing. To reheat, steam them for a few minutes until hot.

What Can I Use Instead of Pork for the Filling? You can substitute pork with ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How Do I Ensure My Buns Are Soft and Fluffy? Ensure the dough is well-kneaded, allow proper rising time, and steam with a tight-fitting lid to retain moisture.

Conclusion

Making steamed buns at home is a rewarding experience that combines simplicity with delicious results. With this recipe, you can enjoy bomb soft steamed buns that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or craving comfort food, these buns are sure to impress.

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