Ingredients
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast or active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus more for brushing
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the proofed yeast mixture and the vegetable oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and passes the ‘windowpane test’ (you should be able to stretch a small piece of dough thin enough to see light through it without it tearing). This step is crucial for developing the gluten structure and creating the perfect bao bun texture.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Working with one piece at a time (cover the rest to prevent drying), use your hands to gently stretch and shape each piece into a round, flat bun, about 4 inches wide. Place the shaped buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Second Rise: Cover the buns with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
- Steam the Buns: Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Working in batches if necessary, carefully place the buns in the steamer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Steam the buns for 12-15 minutes, until they are pillowy soft and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the steamed buns from the basket and serve them warm, with your favorite fillings. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Easy Bao Buns Recipe