Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight after the first rise. Bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping.
DESSERT
Mongolian Steamed Sweet Buns with Red Bean Paste (Buuz)
These delightful Mongolian steamed sweet buns, known as Buuz, feature a soft, fluffy dough wrapped around a sweet red bean paste filling. They are a comforting dessert or snack, perfect for sharing.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well combined.
02
Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
03
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
04
Once risen, gently punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. On a lightly floured surface, flatten each ball into a 3-4 inch (7-10 cm) circle using a rolling pin.
05
Place about 1 tablespoon of sweet red bean paste in the center of each dough circle. Gather the edges of the dough upwards and pinch them together to seal, forming a pleated bun. Ensure the filling is completely enclosed.
06
Line a steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the buns in the steamer basket, leaving some space between them as they will expand. Do not overcrowd the steamer.
07
Steam the buns over boiling water for 15-20 minutes on medium-high heat, or until they are puffed up and cooked through. The buns should feel light and springy to the touch.
08
Carefully remove the steamed buns from the steamer and serve warm. They are best enjoyed fresh.
About This Recipe
These delightful Mongolian steamed sweet buns, known as Buuz, feature a soft, fluffy dough wrapped around a sweet red bean paste filling. They are a comforting dessert or snack, perfect for sharing.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra fluffy buns, ensure your yeast is active and your water is at the correct temperature. Do not overfill the buns, as this can make them difficult to seal.
Easy Substitutions
If red bean paste is unavailable, you can use a sweet taro paste or a thick fruit jam as a filling. Whole wheat flour can be substituted for up to half of the all-purpose flour for a slightly denser bun.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover steamed buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat by steaming for 5-7 minutes until warm and soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sweet buns as a delightful dessert after a meal, as a comforting afternoon snack with tea, or as part of a larger dim sum-style spread. They are also wonderful for breakfast with a cup of coffee.
Common Mistakes
1. Overfilling the buns: This makes sealing difficult and can cause the filling to burst out during steaming. Use about 1 tablespoon of filling per bun. 2. Overcrowding the steamer: Buns need space to expand. Steam in batches if necessary. 3. Using water that is too hot or too cold for yeast: This can kill the yeast or prevent it from activating, leading to dense buns. Aim for 105-115°F (40-46°C). 4. Not kneading enough: Insufficient kneading results in a less elastic dough and a tougher bun texture. Knead until smooth and pliable. 5. Not letting the dough rise sufficiently: This will result in dense, heavy buns. Ensure the dough doubles in size before shaping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't have a steamer?
You can improvise a steamer by placing a heatproof colander or metal sieve over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the water doesn't touch the bottom of the colander. Cover with a tight-fitting lid.
Can I freeze these buns?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked buns. For uncooked buns, freeze them on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Steam directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Cooked buns can be frozen and reheated by steaming.
How do I know if the buns are cooked through?
Cooked buns will be puffed, light, and springy to the touch. If they feel dense or sticky, they may need a few more minutes of steaming.
MORE TO KNOW
Achieving the perfect pleat for your Buuz takes a little practice, but don't worry if your first few aren't perfect. The key is to gently gather the dough edges with your thumb and forefinger, creating small folds as you work your way around the circle, eventually pinching them together at the top. A well-sealed bun prevents the filling from leaking out during steaming. If you find the dough too sticky to work with, lightly flour your hands and the work surface, but avoid adding too much extra flour, which can make the buns tough.
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