Steamed Buns (Mantou)
Delightful, fluffy steamed buns that are versatile and perfect for any meal, bringing comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons Sugar
- 1 cup Warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Oil (optional, for richness)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it bubbles and foams.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a bowl lightly greased with oil, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal pieces (about 10-12). Shape each piece into a ball, cover with a cloth, and let rest for another 10 minutes.
- Prepare your steamer by bringing water to a gentle simmer. If you don’t have a steamer basket, you can use a pot with a lid and a heatproof plate.
Cooking
- Place the buns in the steamer (make sure they have space to expand), cover, and steam for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.
- Remove the buns and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them plain or with your favorite fillings or dipping sauces!
Notes
For best results, allow enough time for the dough to rise properly. Experiment with sweet or savory fillings to suit your taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and re-steam to warm.