Steamed Buns with Spicy Meat Filling

Steamed Buns with Spicy Meat Filling

There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a warm, fluffy steamed bun filled with a savory, spicy meat mixture. Whenever I make these Steamed Buns with Spicy Meat Filling, I’m transported back to my childhood, watching my mom whip up batches of these delectable treats in our cozy kitchen. The aroma wafting through the house was irresistible, and I can still hear my siblings and I begging for just one more!

These buns are not only satisfying but also incredibly fun to make. They are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy Friday night in. Plus, you can customize the filling based on what you have on hand (more on that later!). Let’s dive into what makes these buns so delicious!

What’s in Steamed Buns with Spicy Meat Filling?

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: This is the basic structure of our buns. I usually opt for Gold Medal or King Arthur flour because they have great results!
• 1 tablespoon sugar: A little sweetness to balance out the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast: This helps our buns to rise. Instant yeast is my go-to since it doesn’t require proofing.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a little extra lightness to the dough.
• 1 cup warm water: Make sure it’s warm, not hot! We want to wake up the yeast, not kill it.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: This keeps the dough smooth and pliable.

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground meat (chicken, pork, or beef): I personally love using pork for that juicy, rich flavor, but really, any meat works!
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a nice umami depth to the filling.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: This gives the filling a beautiful glaze and flavor.
• 2 teaspoons chili paste or sauce: Adjust to your spice preference! I may or may not go a bit overboard…
• 2 green onions, finely chopped: Fresh and crunchy — the perfect addition!
• 1 bell pepper, diced (green preferred): Adds some sweetness and color, plus an extra crunch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic, right?
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: A hint of spice that pairs perfectly with the meat.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking: To sauté the filling ingredients.

Is Steamed Buns with Spicy Meat Filling Good for You?

These buns can actually be a pretty wholesome addition to your meal rotation! The filling is packed with protein from the meat, and the vegetables add fiber and vitamins. The green onions, bell pepper, and ginger not only enhance the taste but also bring health benefits. Green onions are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while bell peppers are high in vitamin C.

However, keep in mind that the sodium content can creep up due to the soy sauce and oyster sauce, so if you’re watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium versions. Also, as these are fluffy buns, they may be higher in carbs due to the dough. Balance is key!

Ingredients List

• For the dough:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• For the filling:
  • 1 lb ground meat (chicken, pork, or beef)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili paste or sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (green preferred)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking
• For garnish (optional):
  • Extra chopped green onions

How to Make Steamed Buns with Spicy Meat Filling?

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, and baking powder. Mix well. Gradually add warm water and vegetable oil, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the filling: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant, then add the ground meat. Cook until browned. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili paste, bell pepper, and green onions. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Shape the buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8-10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a circle (about 4 inches in diameter).
4. Fill the buns: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Gather the edges and pinch them together to seal the bun. Make sure they are well sealed to prevent leaks.
5. Steam the buns: Line a steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Place the buns in the steamer, leaving space in between for expansion. Steam over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes or until the buns are fluffy and cooked through.
6. Serve: Once cooked, remove the buns from the steamer. Garnish with extra chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Buns

• If you want to make these ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! After steaming, let them cool. Then, store in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you want to enjoy them, steam them directly from frozen for about 10-15 minutes.
• Don’t be afraid to mix and match fillings! Leftover roasted vegetables, tofu, or various proteins can create unique flavor profiles. The world is your oyster (sauce) after all!
• Pair with a spicy dipping sauce or soy sauce for an extra flavor kick. It makes every bite even more enjoyable!

I can’t wait for you to try these delightful steamed buns! They’ll surely impress your family and friends, and who knows, you might even create some lasting memories in the kitchen like I did. Let me know how it goes, and feel free to share any fun twists you add to the recipe!