Steamed BBQ Pork Buns

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Steamed BBQ Pork Buns.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious journey, grab a mixing bowl and pour in some warm water.

2. Step 2

   Gently sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

3. Step 3

   This waiting time is crucial as it allows the yeast to soften and develop a lovely creamy foam, which is the magic that makes your dough rise.

4. Step 4

   Next, add in the vegetable oil, sugar, and self-rising flour to the yeast mixture.

5. Step 5

   Using a wooden spoon, stir everything together until a shaggy dough begins to form.

6. Step 6

   Now, it’s time to get your hands a little floury! Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes.

7. Step 7

   You want it to become smooth and elastic, which is key for that perfect bun texture.

8. Step 8

   Once you’ve achieved that, place your kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides.

9. Step 9

   Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take around 2 hours.

10. Step 10

    While the dough is rising, let’s prepare the flavorful filling.

11. Step 11

    In a separate bowl, mix together the pork, chopped green onions, cayenne pepper, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce.

12. Step 12

    Give it a good stir to combine everything, then pop it in the fridge to chill until you’re ready to use it.

13. Step 13

    When your dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down to deflate it.

14. Step 14

    Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and divide it in half.

15. Step 15

    Roll each half into a long tube and cut each tube into six equal pieces.

16. Step 16

    Shape each piece into a ball, then flatten it into a disk.

17. Step 17

    Roll each disk out to about 1/8-inch thick and 4 to 5 inches wide, making sure the edges are thinner than the center for that perfect bun shape.

18. Step 18

    Now comes the fun part! Place a spoonful of your savory pork filling in the center of each dough circle.

19. Step 19

    Pinch the edges together, creating small pleats to seal the filling inside.

20. Step 20

    If the edges are a bit stubborn, a little water can help them stick together.

21. Step 21

    Next, place each bun on a square of parchment paper and arrange them in your cold bamboo steamer.

22. Step 22

    Cover them up and let them proof until they’re noticeably puffed, which should take about 30 to 45 minutes.

23. Step 23

    While you wait, fill a Dutch oven with a couple of inches of water and bring it to a boil over high heat.

24. Step 24

    Once boiling, carefully place the steamer on top and set a timer for 10 minutes.

25. Step 25

    After the timer goes off, turn off the heat but let the buns sit covered for an additional 15 minutes.

26. Step 26

    This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

27. Step 27

    Finally, uncover your steamer and transfer the buns to a plate.

28. Step 28

    Enjoy the delightful aroma and get ready to savor these homemade treats!.