I have always loved steamed buns since I was a child. The soft and fluffy texture, combined with the savory filling, creates a delightful taste sensation. However, I used to think that making steamed buns at home was a complicated and time-consuming process. That was until I discovered a quick and easy way to cook steamed buns in the microwave. In this article, I will share with you my step-by-step guide on how to make delicious steamed buns in the microwave.
Gathering the Ingredients and Tools
The first step in making steamed buns in the microwave is to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s what you will need:
For the dough:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of warm water
For the filling:
– 1 cup of minced meat or vegetables of your choice
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
Additional tools:
– Microwave-safe plate or steaming dish
– Microwave
Preparing the Dough
Once you have gathered all the ingredients and tools, it’s time to prepare the dough for your steamed buns. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1:
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix them well together.
Step 2:
Slowly add the warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a soft dough is formed.
Step 3:
Next, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rest for about 15 minutes.
Preparing the Filling
While the dough is resting, you can prepare the filling for your steamed buns. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1:
In a separate bowl, combine the minced meat or vegetables with soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Mix everything well together.
Step 2:
Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add the filling mixture. Cook it until the meat is no longer pink or the vegetables are tender.
Step 3:
Remove the filling from the heat and set it aside to cool.
Assembling and Cooking the Steamed Buns
Now that you have both the dough and the filling ready, it’s time to assemble and cook your steamed buns using the microwave. Follow these steps:
Step 1:
Divide the dough into small equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a circle with a rolling pin.
Step 2:
Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch them together to seal the bun.
Step 3:
Place the assembled buns on a microwave-safe plate or steaming dish, leaving some space between them. Cover the plate or dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
Step 4:
Place the plate or dish in the microwave and cook the steamed buns on high power for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the buns are puffed up and cooked through.
Serving and Enjoying the Steamed Buns
Once the steamed buns are cooked, carefully remove them from the microwave and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as they are. These microwave-steamed buns are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course.
In conclusion, cooking steamed buns in the microwave is a quick and easy alternative to traditional steaming methods. With just a few simple ingredients and tools, you can enjoy delicious homemade steamed buns in a fraction of the time. So why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with your microwave-steamed bun skills? Happy cooking!