Vegetarian Steamed Pork Buns
Discover the irresistible charm of Vegetarian Steamed Pork Buns, a plant-based twist on the classic Chinese dim sum favorite. These fluffy, handmade buns feature soft, pillowy dough and a savory filling crafted from soy or pea protein-based ground "pork," infused with the umami-rich flavors of soy sauce, hoisin, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Perfectly steamed to achieve an airy texture, these buns offer a delicious and satisfying bite for vegans and vegetarians alike, while delivering all the comforting nostalgia of traditional steamed buns. With step-by-step directions for mastering the art of pleating and steaming, this recipe makes it easy to replicate restaurant-style bao at home. Serve them piping hot for a cozy appetizer, snack, or even a unique party dish. Searching for vegan dim sum recipes or plant-based pork buns? This recipe has you covered!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
- 3 tablespoons Sugar
- 1 cup Warm water
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 8 ounces Plant-based ground 'pork' (e.g., soy or pea protein-based)
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Hoison sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Ginger, minced
- 2 stalks Scallions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Water
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the plant-based ground 'pork,' soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and scallions to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring to combine.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the filling thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
After 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 4-5 inch circle.
Place a spoonful of the filling into the center of each dough circle. Gather the edges of the dough and pleat them to seal the filling inside, pinching tightly to close.
Place each bun on a square of parchment paper and let them rest for 15 minutes while you prepare your steamer.
Arrange the buns in the steamer, leaving enough space between them to expand. Steam the buns over boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and fluffy.
Serve the buns warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
308 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 10.1 g | 13% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.1 g | 10% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 385 mg | 17% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 43.6 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.9 g | ||
| Protein | 10.2 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 26 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 154 mg | 3% | |
*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.
