Vegan Toasted Siopao
Discover the magic of Vegan Toasted Siopao, a plant-based twist on the classic Filipino steamed bun that’s just as satisfying and flavorful! This unique recipe combines fluffy, golden-brown homemade buns with a savory tofu filling infused with soy sauce, hoisin, and a hint of smoky goodness. Featuring simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and tofu, the recipe offers optional vital wheat gluten for an extra chewy texture. The buns achieve their signature toasted crust and tender interior through a clever stovetop steaming and pan-toasting method. Perfect as a snack or light meal, these siopao are sure to impress with their rich, umami-packed filling and irresistible aroma. Elevate your plant-based cooking and try these Vegan Toasted Siopao today!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 packet Instant yeast
- 4 tablespoons Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Warm water
- 3 tablespoons Neutral vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Vital wheat gluten (optional, for chewier texture)
- 1 block Firm tofu
- 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon Liquid smoke (optional)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 1 small Carrot, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons Spring onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Water (for slurry)
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons Cooking oil
Instructions
In a small bowl, dissolve 2 tablespoons of sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the instant yeast on top, stir gently, and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, vital wheat gluten (if using), and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Create a well in the middle and pour in the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix together to form a dough.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then crumble it into small pieces resembling ground meat.
Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the carrots and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in the crumbled tofu, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and liquid smoke (if using). Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tofu absorbs the flavors.
Mix the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the tofu mixture and cook until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped spring onions and sesame oil. Let the filling cool completely.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a disc about 4 inches in diameter.
Place about 2 tablespoons of the cooled filling in the center of each disc. Pinch the edges together to seal and shape into a bun with the seam side down.
Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Place the buns seam side down in the pan and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3 minutes.
Pour enough water into the skillet to come about 1/4 inch up the sides of the buns. Cover immediately and steam for 10 minutes or until the water has evaporated.
Remove the lid and let the buns toast for an additional 1–2 minutes. Repeat this process with the remaining buns if necessary.
Serve warm as a snack or part of a meal. Enjoy your Vegan Toasted Siopao!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2844 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 108.3 g | 139% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.1 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4727 mg | 206% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 379.4 g | 138% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.9 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 70.8 g | ||
| Protein | 101.0 g | 202% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 762 mg | 59% | |
| Iron | 25.2 mg | 140% | |
| Potassium | 1564 mg | 33% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
