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Bao Buns

Fluffy Bao Buns: Customize Your Perfect Savory Pockets

Incredibly soft and customizable, bao buns are the perfect savory pockets to impress your guests.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar Can swap with honey or agave syrup.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast Ensure yeast is fresh.
  • 1 cup warm milk Use almond or soy milk for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Consider using melted butter or olive oil.
For the Filling
  • 1 pound pork belly Or substitute with chicken or tofu.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce Adjust quantity based on taste.
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha Modify for desired spice level.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Steamer
  • Rolling Pin

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Bao Buns
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and active dry yeast. Gradually add warm milk until a soft dough forms.
  2. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour.
  4. Once risen, punch down the dough, divide it into 12 pieces, roll into balls, and flatten into circles.
  5. Prepare the filling by cooking pork belly/chicken/tofu with soy sauce and sriracha until cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
  6. Place a spoonful of filling on each dough circle, fold to seal, and steam for about 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bunCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftover bao buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

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