Chinese Steamed Buns (Mantou) Recipe
Chinese · Bread · 45 min total
Soft, fluffy steamed buns that are a staple of Northern Chinese cuisine. These plain mantou are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish.
30
min prep
15
min cook
8
servings
130
kcal/serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and oil, mix until a dough forms.
- Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough, knead briefly, then divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each into a smooth ball.
- Place each bun on a small square of parchment paper. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.
- Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Steam buns over high heat for 12 minutes. Do not open lid during steaming.
- Turn off heat and let buns sit for 3 minutes before opening lid. Serve warm.
Tips
- To keep leftover mantou, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming for 5 minutes.
- These buns can be frozen after steaming. Cool completely, then freeze in a zip-top bag. Steam directly from frozen for 8-10 minutes.
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