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Picture this: you step into your kitchen, the tantalizing scent of ginger and spring onion wafting through the air, inviting you to embark on a culinary adventure. These Spring Onion Steamed Buns, or bao buns, are not just a dish—they’re a delightful experience waiting to happen. Whether you’re cozying up at home or entertaining friends, these fluffy, pillowy buns will win hearts and taste buds alike.

I once found myself frantically searching for a unique appetizer that would impress my guests at a last-minute gathering. As luck would have it, I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe while flipping through my cookbooks. With just a handful of simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and, most importantly, fresh spring onions, I knew I had struck gold. The best part? They come together effortlessly, making you look like a culinary superstar with minimal stress.

Join me as we roll up our sleeves and dive into the art of creating these tasty bites that are perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Let’s make magic in the kitchen together!

Why love Spring Onion Steamed Buns?

Versatile Delight: These Spring Onion Steamed Buns are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in. Fluffy Texture: The soft, pillowy texture takes your taste buds on a cloud-like ride. Unique Flavor: The combination of ginger and spring onion adds a refreshing twist that’s unlike any store-bought option. Easy to Make: Even beginner cooks can nail this recipe with ease—just follow the simple steps for a stress-free cooking experience. Showstopper: Impress your guests and family with these buns, making them the centerpiece of your next feast. Don’t forget to try them alongside some delicious dipping sauces—your taste adventure awaits!

Spring Onion Steamed Buns Ingredients

For the Dough
• Plain (all-purpose) flour – This is the main ingredient that gives the buns their soft, fluffy structure.
• Skim-milk powder – Adds rich flavor and enhances the bun’s texture; you can swap with whole milk powder for extra creaminess.
• Baking powder – Helps the buns rise for that pillowy finish.
• White sugar – Sweetens the dough slightly; feel free to use coconut sugar for a more caramel flavor.
• Instant dry yeast – Essential for leavening; if you have fresh yeast, you can use it, but adjust the quantity slightly.
• Sea salt – Balances the flavors in the dough.
• Vegetable oil – Helps keep the dough moist and tender; any neutral oil will do.
• Warm water – Activates the yeast; make sure it’s not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.

For the Filling
• Spring onion – Adds a delicious, fresh bite; feel free to use scallions if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Ginger – Brings warmth and depth to the filling; substitute with garlic for a different flavor profile.
• Sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.

Embrace the magic of making Spring Onion Steamed Buns! Whether you’re enjoying them on a quiet night in or impressing guests at a festivity, these ingredients promise a delightful culinary experience.

How to Make Spring Onion Steamed Buns

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, skim-milk powder, baking powder, sugar, and yeast. In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil and warm water. Make a well in the dry mixture and pour the liquids in. Stir gently.
Knead the Dough: Use your hands to knead the dough until it comes together, approximately 5 minutes. You want a smooth texture, so sprinkle in extra flour if it sticks. Cover the bowl and let it rest in a warm place for about 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, stir together the finely chopped spring onion, ginger, and sea salt in a small bowl. This mix will provide a flavorful surprise inside each bun!
Shape the Buns: Lightly oil your work surface, then punch down the risen dough. Knead the dough for another 5 to 10 minutes to eliminate any air bubbles. Roll it out to a thickness of 1 cm, then cut out rounds using an 8 cm diameter cutter.
Fill and Seal: Place a heaped teaspoon of the spring onion mixture in the center of each round. Fold the sides up to meet at the center, twist to seal the seam, and shape the bun smooth by rolling it in your palm. Place onto a tray lined with paper towel and repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Steam the Buns: Prepare a steamer and steam the buns for 10-12 minutes until they’re fluffy and cooked through. Serve them warm!

Optional: Drizzle with soy sauce or serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Spring Onion Steamed Buns

Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is smooth and not too sticky. If it’s sticking to your hands or the surface, add a bit more flour gradually.
Resting Time: Don’t rush the rising process; allowing the dough to double in size is key for fluffy spring onion steamed buns.
Filling Distribution: Be careful not to overfill the buns. A little goes a long way—just a heaped teaspoon is perfect to prevent bursting during steaming.
Steaming Method: If steaming multiple batches, make sure to keep the buns covered while waiting to ensure they stay moist and warm.
Cooling Tips: Allow the buns to cool slightly post-steaming, as they will be very hot. This enhances the tasting experience without the risk of burning your tongue.

How to Store and Freeze Spring Onion Steamed Buns

Room Temperature: Store leftover Spring Onion Steamed Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.

Fridge: For longer preservation, keep the buns in the fridge, wrapped in plastic wrap or in a sealed container, for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for best results.

Freezer: Freeze individual buns by placing them in a single layer on a baking tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, steam the buns for 5-7 minutes until warm, or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Spring Onion Steamed Buns?

Creating a full meal experience with these fluffy delights is easy and fun!

Soy Sauce Dipping: A dash of soy sauce elevates the steamed buns, adding a savory umami that complements their light texture beautifully.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds a sweet-spicy kick that harmonizes with the bun’s subtle flavors, creating a delightful taste contrast.
Crispy Fried Tofu: Pair these steamed buns with crispy tofu bites for a satisfying, protein-rich addition to your meal, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Asian Slaw Salad: A crunchy, tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds freshness and balances the soft, pillowy buns—perfect for a colorful plate!
Hot and Sour Soup: The zesty and warming broth from a hot and sour soup creates a delightful contrast, making your dining experience even more memorable.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet ending, serve these buns with a side of creamy mango sticky rice, mixing textures and flavors beautifully.
Jasmine Tea: A fragrant cup of jasmine tea pairs wonderfully with these buns, adding a soothing and aromatic drink option to your meal.

Each of these pairings brings out the best in your Spring Onion Steamed Buns, inviting your family and friends to savor every bite!

Spring Onion Steamed Buns Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these fun variations to customize your Spring Onion Steamed Buns, adding your personal touch to every delightful bite.

Gluten-Free: Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to cater to gluten sensitivities. With a few adjustments in the kneading time, you can enjoy deliciously fluffy buns.
Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped chili peppers to the spring onion mixture for an extra layer of heat. It brightens up the flavor profile while keeping the buns exciting and zesty.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the filling for a refreshing twist. These herbs complement the ginger beautifully, elevating your bun experience to new heights.
Savory Addition: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms or cooked minced meat into the filling. This creates a heartier bun that’s perfect for a satisfying meal, making it an enjoyable option for any hungry diner.
Sweet Twist: For a surprising dessert version, fill the buns with sweetened red bean paste or a chocolate hazelnut spread. Steamed sweetness has never been more divine!
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based milk powder in place of skim milk powder and choose a vegetable oil for a vegan-friendly version. These swaps ensure everyone can enjoy the fluffy texture.
Nutty Flavor: Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds into the filling for a delightful crunch and nutty taste. The exquisite texture will surely enhance your overall bun experience.
Citrus Zing: A dash of lemon or lime zest in the spring onion mix brightens the flavors. This lively touch provides a refreshing burst with every soft, fluffy bite.

Experimenting with these variations not only elevates your culinary creativity but also helps you cater to diverse palates. Enjoy the delightful process of making these Spring Onion Steamed Buns your very own!

Make Ahead Options

These Spring Onion Steamed Buns are perfect for the busy home cook wanting to streamline mealtime! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the first two steps of the recipe, then cover and refrigerate the dough until it’s ready to use. To maintain quality, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and shaping. Additionally, the filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill and steam the buns, and you’ll have fluffy, delightful steamed buns that taste just as delicious as if made fresh that day. Enjoy the time-saving benefits!

Spring Onion Steamed Buns Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose spring onions for my buns?
Absolutely! Look for spring onions that are firm and vibrant with bright green tops. Avoid ones that are wilted or have dark spots, as these are indicators of age and reduced freshness. If you can, select spring onions that are straight and crisp for the best flavor.

How should I store leftover Spring Onion Steamed Buns?
For sure! Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them for a bit longer, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate; they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them before enjoying!

Can I freeze Spring Onion Steamed Buns, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your buns, first, arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray and place them in the freezer until they are solid. This usually takes a couple of hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you squeeze out as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

How can I reheat frozen buns to maintain their softness?
Very! To reheat, steam the frozen buns for 5-7 minutes until heated through, or you can microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds. This helps keep them soft and delightful!

What should I do if my dough is too sticky while kneading?
It happens to the best of us! If you find your dough is sticking to your hands or the work surface, simply sprinkle in a little extra flour gradually as needed while kneading. Aim for a smooth texture that’s slightly tacky but manageable.

Can I substitute ingredients to make these buns allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if gluten is a concern. As for the skim milk powder, a dairy-free milk powder works just as well. Ensure to check for other allergens in your chosen fillings for the most enjoyable experience!