As I stood in my kitchen, the delicious aroma of Chinese sausages sizzling away brought back a flood of childhood memories. There’s something so comforting about the soft pillowy texture of steamed buns that wraps up flavorful fillings like a warm hug. Inspired by the vibrant street markets of my youth, I knew I had to recreate that magic at home, and that’s how these Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns came to life.
Perfect for a quick lunch or an impressive dinner party dish, these buns are a delightful twist on traditional dumplings. The combination of sweet Chinese sausage with rich oyster sauce and a hint of dark soy creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. What’s even better is that they’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting on your culinary journey, these buns will surely impress your family or friends while transforming your dining table into an Asian-inspired feast. Ready to get steam-cooking? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why love Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns?
Comforting and cozy, these buns promise a delightful experience reminiscent of your favorite street market delicacies. Flavor-packed with the perfect harmony of sweet and savory notes, they burst with rich oyster sauce and tender Chinese sausage. Effortless preparation means you don’t need advanced skills to impress loved ones. Versatile and fun, they make a fantastic snack or an elegant party dish. Get ready to turn any meal into an unforgettable feast with these delightful buns!
Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns Ingredients
For the Dough
• Cake flour – perfect for creating the soft, fluffy texture that defines steamed buns.
• Milk – adds moisture; you can use whole or any lower fat version you prefer.
• Egg whites – help to incorporate air into the dough, making it light and airy.
• Instant yeast – ensures your buns rise perfectly without long proofs.
• Baking powder – gives a little extra lift to your dough.
• Sugar – balances flavors and helps create a slightly sweet taste.
• Lard – enhances the dough’s richness; butter could be a suitable substitute.
For the Filling
• Chinese sausages – the star ingredient; their sweet and savory flavor creates a delightful filling.
• Oyster sauce – adds depth and umami; a must for flavoring the filling.
• White granulated sugar – a touch of sweetness to complement the sausages.
• Water – ensures the filling stays moist and cohesive.
• Dark soy sauce – gives a beautiful color and deeper flavor to the filling.
• Chinese rose cooking wine – enhances aroma and adds complexity; feel free to substitute with dry sherry.
• Gelatine – helps bind the filling, ensuring it stays together when cooked.
For the Sauce
• Cornstarch – thickens the sauce for the perfect dipping consistency.
• Water – combined with cornstarch to create a smooth dipping sauce.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to making delicious Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns that will bring smiles to your table!
How to Make Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cake flour, milk, egg whites, instant yeast, baking powder, sugar, and lard. Stir until the dough is smooth and well combined, feeling free to get your hands in there for extra love!
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Let it Rest: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the yeast to activate, helping your buns become beautifully fluffy.
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Cook the Sausages: While the dough is resting, heat a pan over medium heat and cook the Chinese sausages until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Chop them into small pieces — the delightful smell will bring anyone to the kitchen!
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Mix the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped sausages with oyster sauce, sugar, water, dark soy sauce, rose cooking wine, and gelatine. Stir well until everything is nicely incorporated, creating a savory filling that will make your taste buds dance.
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Prepare the Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a smooth slurry. This will be your dipping sauce, enhancing the enjoyment of each bun.
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Roll out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the rested dough until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles for your buns — they should be large enough to hold a spoonful of filling.
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Assemble the Buns: Place a generous spoonful of filling onto the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Make sure they’re well-sealed, so the delicious goodness stays inside during steaming!
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Steam the Dumplings: Arrange your buns in a steamer lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have space to expand. Steam for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and puffy. The anticipation will be mouthwatering!
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Serve with Dipping Sauce: Once cooked, serve the buns warm, paired with your cornstarch slurry as a delightful dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite with family and friends!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an added burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns?
Elevate your meal experience while complementing the warm, fluffy delight of these buns with flavorful pairings.
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Soy Sauce: A classic companion, it accentuates the savory notes of the buns and enhances the overall taste. A drizzle can add a touch of saltiness that balances the sweetness of the sausage filling.
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Pickled Vegetables: Vibrant and tangy, pickled veggies provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the buns. They cleanse your palate and add an exciting burst of flavor.
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Asian Slaw: Crunchy cabbage mixed with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and carrots brings a wonderful textural contrast and a hint of crispness to your plate, creating a balanced meal.
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Chili Oil: For those who love a spicy kick, chili oil adds depth and heat. Just a drop transforms the tasting experience, making each bite of the bun a thrilling adventure.
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Scallion Pancakes: The flaky, savory nature of scallion pancakes complements the soft buns perfectly. Their layers offer richness, melding flavors beautifully when enjoyed together.
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Hot Green Tea: A soothing drink choice, it’s perfect for cutting through the richness of the buns while promoting digestion. The warmth and lightness enhance the overall meal experience.
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Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and creamy dessert, this Thai-inspired treat balances the savory flavors of the buns. The coconut milk and mango add a wonderful tropical twist to wrap up your meal on a high note.
Whether you’re planning a special dinner or a cozy lunch, these pairings will surely delight every diner at your table!
Make Ahead Options
These Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough and let it rest (step 1 and 2) before wrapping the sausage filling. After assembling the buns, place them in a steamer, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just steam the buns directly from the fridge for about 20 minutes until hot and fluffy. This method keeps them just as delicious as freshly made, ensuring that you can indulge in your favorite treat without the last-minute rush on busy weeknights.
Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns Variations
Get ready to elevate your dumpling game with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend to make these buns accessible for everyone.
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Vegetarian: Replace Chinese sausage with finely chopped mushrooms and tofu, seasoned with soy sauce for a hearty filling.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of Sriracha to the filling for those who crave some heat.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions into the filling to add brightness and freshness in every bite.
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the filling for a gooey twist that adds creaminess to each bun.
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Sweet Twist: Use sweetened red bean paste instead of sausage for a delightful dessert version that still packs a punch!
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Seasonal Flavors: Experiment with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin puree in the fall or fresh peas in the spring for fun, vibrant variations.
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Asian Fusion: Add a hint of curry powder to the filling for an exciting fusion twist, taking your taste buds on a flavorful journey.
Embrace your creativity with these variations and customize your Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns to reflect your unique tastes!
How to Store and Freeze Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns
Room Temperature: Serve the buns warm right after steaming for the best flavor. However, you can keep them at room temperature for up to 2 hours if needed.
Fridge: Store any leftover buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming them for a few minutes until warmed through for a soft texture.
Freezer: Freeze the buns in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Steam directly from frozen for about 15-18 minutes or until heated through.
Reheating: Gently reheat steamed buns in a steamer or microwave. Steaming is preferred as it retains moisture, making your Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns fluffy and delicious again!
Expert Tips for Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns
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Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is smooth and not too sticky. If it’s too wet, gradually add more cake flour until the right texture is achieved.
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Filling Flavor: Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling. This prevents the dough from getting soggy and helps the flavors meld together nicely.
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Sealing the Buns: When folding the dough over the filling, pinch the edges firmly to avoid any leaks during steaming. This keeps all that delicious filling inside!
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Steaming Technique: Arrange the buns in the steamer with enough space in between. They will expand while cooking, and you want them to stay fluffy and soft.
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Serving Tip: For an extra touch, serve your steamed buns with hoisin sauce or chili oil alongside the cornstarch dipping sauce for diverse flavor options!
With these tips, you’re all set to create perfectly delightful Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns that are sure to impress!
Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right Chinese sausages?
Absolutely! Look for sausages that are firm and have a nice sheen. The best ones are slightly sweet and fragrant. Check for any dark spots or unusual smells, as these are signs of spoilage. If you can, taste-test!
How should I store leftover steamed buns?
Very simply! Place leftover buns in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just steam them for a few minutes to bring back their soft, fluffy texture.
Can I freeze steamed Chinese sausage buns?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first place the steamed buns on a baking sheet and freeze them in a single layer until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, steam them directly from frozen for about 15-18 minutes or until heated through.
Why did my steamed buns come out dense?
Oh no, that can be disappointing! A dense bun might occur if the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or if it sat too long before steaming. Make sure to knead until smooth and allow adequate time for resting, encouraging a nice rise. If this happens, you can adjust your second batch by adding a little more yeast or checking your dough consistency.
Can I make these buns vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Chinese sausages with plant-based alternatives, like mushrooms or tofu, marinated in a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of maple syrup for sweetness. Replace lard with vegetable oil or another plant-based fat, and use plant-based milk to keep them vegan. With these tweaks, you can enjoy a delightful veggie version of the Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns!
How do I know when the buns are fully steamed?
Great question! The buns should appear fluffy, hold their shape, and not stick to the steamer. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open and check that the filling is hot throughout and the dough is cooked through. It should look smooth, with no doughy spots. Enjoy your steaming adventure!
Easy Steamed Chinese Sausage Buns for Flavorful Home Cooking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine cake flour, milk, egg whites, instant yeast, baking powder, sugar, and lard in a large bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes.
- Cook Chinese sausages in a pan over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Chop into small pieces.
- In a new bowl, mix chopped sausages with oyster sauce, sugar, water, dark soy sauce, rose cooking wine, and gelatine until well combined.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry for dipping sauce.
- Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out circles for buns.
- Place filling in the center of each dough circle and seal them by pinching the edges.
- Arrange buns in a steamer lined with parchment paper and steam for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve warm with cornstarch slurry as a dipping sauce.