Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling

Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling Recipe

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 15-25 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine that features soft and fluffy buns filled with a savory mixture of pork, shrimp, and seasonings. These steamed buns are a delicious and satisfying meal or snack that can be enjoyed any time of day.

History

Steamed buns have been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries, with various regional variations and fillings. The combination of pork and shrimp filling in steamed buns is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed by generations of Chinese families.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of chopped pork
1 (4 oz (113 g)) can of shrimp, drained and chopped
1 tsp of salt
2 green onions
1 tbsp of chopped fresh ginger root
1 tbsp of light soy sauce
1 tbsp of rice wine
1 tbsp of vegetable oil
1 tbsp of white sugar
ground black pepper to taste
2.5 tbsp of water

How to prepare

Chop the pork into small cubes and cook them in a wok for 3–4 minutes.
Add onions, soy sauce, ginger, rice wine, oil, sugar, and pepper to the wok.
Place the mixture in the freezer and let it chill for 2 hours.
Shape the dough into small balls for the buns.
Add 1 tbsp of filling into the center of each dough ball and let it stand for 30 minutes.
Steam the buns for 15–25 minutes.

Variations

Substitute the pork and shrimp filling with chicken or beef for a different flavor.
Add chopped vegetables such as cabbage or carrots to the filling for added texture and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the filling mixture before shaping the buns to ensure that it holds its shape during steaming.

- Use a steamer basket or bamboo steamer to steam the buns, making sure to leave enough space between each bun for them to expand.

- To prevent the buns from sticking to the steamer, line the steamer with parchment paper or cabbage leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling with a side of soy sauce for dipping and a hot cup of tea.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming is the traditional method of cooking Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling, as it helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the buns.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground pork instead of chopped pork for a smoother filling.

- Substitute mirin or dry sherry for rice wine if unavailable.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the filling mixture and dough ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and steam the buns.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the steamed buns on a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling pair well with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover steamed buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a steamer or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and soy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling are a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines soft and fluffy buns with a savory pork and shrimp filling. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine at home.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling. It was many years ago, during a trip to China with my husband. We were wandering through the bustling streets of Shanghai, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. As we passed by a small street food stall, the delicious aroma of freshly steamed buns filled the air, beckoning us closer.

I watched in fascination as the skilled vendor deftly folded and pleated the dough, creating perfect little buns filled with savory meat. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these delicious treats for myself. I approached the vendor, who was more than happy to share his recipe with me.

He explained that the key to making the perfect steamed buns lies in the dough. It must be soft and elastic, yet sturdy enough to hold the savory meat filling. He showed me how to mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and water together, kneading the dough until it was smooth and pliable. As he demonstrated the technique of folding and pleating the dough, I watched intently, eager to replicate his skillful movements.

After several attempts, I finally mastered the art of making the dough and shaping it into the perfect little buns. The vendor then showed me how to make the flavorful meat filling, a mixture of ground pork, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and green onions. As he spooned the filling into each bun, I could hardly wait to taste the final product.

Once the buns were steamed to perfection, I eagerly bit into one, savoring the delicious combination of soft, fluffy dough and savory meat filling. The flavors exploded in my mouth, transporting me back to the bustling streets of Shanghai. I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite for years to come.

When we returned home from our trip, I wasted no time in recreating the Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling for my family. They were an instant hit, and soon became a regular dish on our dinner table. Over the years, I have made these steamed buns for countless family gatherings and special occasions, each time eliciting oohs and ahhs from my loved ones.

As I continued to make the steamed buns, I began to experiment with different variations of the recipe. I added extra spices to the meat filling, such as star anise and five spice powder, to give it an extra kick of flavor. I also tried using different types of meat, such as chicken and shrimp, to create a variety of fillings for the buns.

Through trial and error, I perfected my recipe for Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling, creating a dish that was truly my own. The recipe became a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for sharing delicious food with my family and friends.

To this day, whenever I make these steamed buns, I am transported back to that bustling street in Shanghai, where I first discovered the joy of creating a dish that brings people together. I am grateful for the vendor who shared his recipe with me, and for the memories that I have created through the simple act of cooking. Cooking is more than just a means of sustenance – it is a way to connect with others, to create lasting memories, and to share a piece of oneself with the world. And for me, there is no better way to do that than through the art of making Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling.