Steamed Buns (for Bao or siopao)
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 3 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 5 cups flour
- 1.5 tablespoons baking powder
- 1/3 cup shortening
Instructions
Let the yeast bubble 
Knead the dough in a stand mixer 
Let the dough rise 
Punch down the dough 
Cut the dough into bun shapes 
For traditional siopao, flatten the circles and fill. Twist the top closed 
Steam in a bamboo steamer - Mix the warm water and yeast. Let it sit and bubble for 5 minutes.
- Put the sugar, flour, baking powder and shortening in the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the yeast mixture. Knead using the dough hook for 7-8 minutes.
- Cover with a damp towel or cling film and let it rise for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Bring a large pot of water to the boil and line some bamboo steamers with parchment paper or banana leaves.
- Punch the dough down. Roll into a long cylinder and cut into 16-20 portions. Form as needed (stuff or leave as is). Place them in the steamers, leaving at least 1 inch between the pieces as they will rise while cooking.
- Steam for 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat but leave covered until read to serve.
Linda
The Hungry Host
I come from a culture where sharing a meal makes you friends, and cooking together makes you family. I invite you to join my virtual family of recipe hounds and home cooks who are just looking for something delicious to serve family and friends.
