dinner

Bao Buns

These vegan bao buns are my little pockets of joy, especially when I feel like treating myself to something special on a quiet Sunday afternoon.

Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Total Time: 50 min
Servings: 12
Difficulty: medium
Bao Buns - Vegan recipe hero image

I first stumbled upon these when I was trying to recreate a cherished memory from a trip to a bustling market in Taipei.

The key, I've discovered, is using a bit of extra love when kneading the dough—it makes them fluffy enough to float away!

This recipe means a lot to me because it's my way of bringing a slice of that vibrant experience back home.

Plus, there's something so satisfying about watching them steam up and knowing they're filled with plant-based goodness.

What Makes This Recipe Special

  • Made with simple, plant-based ingredients that are easy to find
  • No animal products - completely vegan and cruelty-free
  • Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike
  • Delicious results that everyone will love, vegan or not

Ingredients & Substitutions

If you're avoiding gluten, no worries! I've swapped in a gluten-free flour blend before, just tweak the water a bit until it feels right.

Tips & Notes

  • I like to knead the dough until it feels like a soft pillow that springs back slightly when poked.
  • For the fluffiest buns, let them rise in a warm spot—my kitchen windowsill works wonders.
  • I keep any extras in a bamboo steamer, which seems to keep them perfectly pillowy even the next day.

Recipe Variations

  • If I have leftover jackfruit, I'll toss it in for a pulled 'pork' vibe—so tasty!
  • Sometimes I add a pinch of five-spice powder to the dough for a subtle, aromatic twist.

Storage & Freezing

Store leftover bao buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a steamer or microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze bao buns?

Yes, you can freeze the steamed bao buns. Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Re-steam them for a few minutes to heat them up.

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These vegan bao buns are my little pockets of joy, especially when I feel like treating myself to something special on a quiet Sunday afternoon.

Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Total Time: 50 min
Servings: 12
Difficulty: medium

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well.

  2. 2

    In a separate bowl, combine the warm non-dairy milk and vegetable oil. Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

  3. 3

    Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 1 hour.

  4. 4

    While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or vegetable broth and the chopped mushrooms.

  5. 5

    Cook the mushrooms for about 5 minutes until softened, then add the grated carrot and chopped green onion. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes.

  6. 6

    Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch (if using) to the vegetable mixture and cook for an additional minute until combined. Remove from heat and let cool.

  7. 7

    After the dough has rested, divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about 4 inches in diameter.

  8. 8

    Place a spoonful of the mushroom filling in the center of each disc, then fold the edges over the filling and pinch them together to seal.

  9. 9

    Prepare a steamer basket or a pot with a steaming rack, and bring water to a boil. Place the bao buns in the steamer, making sure they are not touching, and steam for 15-20 minutes.

  10. 10

    Once steamed, remove the bao buns and serve warm with additional soy sauce or dipping sauce of your choice.

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