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Easy Bao Buns Recipe


  • Author: Elizabeth
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the buns with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
  7. 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.
  8. 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