Steamed Buns (Mantou)

Name: Steamed Buns (Mantou)
Cook time: 130 min
Total time: 130 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 350g All-purpose Flour; 180ml Water, warm; 25g Granulated Sugar; 1 tsp Instant Dry Yeast; 1/2 tsp Fine Salt

These soft, pillowy steamed buns (mantou) are tender, slightly sweet, and wonderfully light — a comforting staple that pairs with everything from savory dishes to a simple cup of tea. With just a few pantry ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have glossy, cloud-like buns that are irresistible warm from the steamer.

These soft, pillowy steamed buns (mantou) are tender, slightly sweet, and wonderfully light — a comforting staple that pairs with ... Show more

Traditional Chinese Recipe

Health Grade

D+ · Occasional

Time

2 hrs

Price

0,04 €

Calories

345 kcal

vegan

budget

low calorie

low fat

low sugar

kid friendly

Method

Make the dough

In a large bowl, stir together the warm water, granulated sugar, and instant dry yeast until the sugar dissolves. Add the all-purpose flour and fine salt, then mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn it onto a clean work surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, supple, and only slightly tacky.

Proof the dough

Put the dough back in the bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 60 minutes.

Shape the buns

Punch the dough down gently to release the big air bubbles, then cut it into 8 equal pieces with a knife or bench scraper. Shape each piece into a smooth ball or short oval, tucking the seams underneath, and arrange them in the steamer basket with space between each piece.

Proof again

Cover the basket and let the shaped buns proof until they look puffy and feel light, about 20 minutes.

Steam the buns

Bring the water in a pot to a steady simmer, set the steamer basket over the pot, and steam the buns for 12 minutes. Turn off the heat and let them sit covered for 5 minutes before opening the lid. Transfer the buns to a plate and serve warm.