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Tender Beef Bao Buns – Soft, Fluffy, and Packed with Flavor

Tender Beef Bao Buns – Soft, Fluffy, and Packed with Flavor
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Experience the best of street food at home with these Tender Beef Bao Buns. Soft, pillowy bao buns are steamed to perfection and filled with melt-in-your-mouth, savory beef, accented by crunchy vegetables and a hint of sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a fun weekend treat!

Ingredients

  • For the Bao Buns:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant or active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

  • 1/2 cup warm water

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • For the Beef Filling:

  • 1 lb beef (short ribs, brisket, or flank steak), cut into small pieces (or use pre-cooked shredded beef)

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

  • 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the Bao Dough:

    • In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.

    • Add warm milk, warm water, and vegetable oil. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

    • Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour).

  3. Prepare the Beef Filling:

    • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the beef until browned. (If using tougher cuts, you can slow-cook or simmer until tender.)

    • Add minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir and cook for 3–5 minutes until flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

  4. Shape the Bao Buns:

    • Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface.

    • Cut into rounds (about 3 inches in diameter) using a cutter or glass.

    • Fold each round in half, creating a pocket. Place them on a parchment-lined steamer tray, cover, and let them rest for 20 minutes to rise slightly.

  5. Steam the Buns:

    • Steam the bao buns in a bamboo steamer or on a rack over simmering water for about 10 minutes until soft and fluffy.

  6. Assemble the Bao Buns:

    • Gently open each steamed bun and fill with a generous portion of the beef filling.

    • Garnish with sliced green onions and cucumber for a fresh, crunchy contrast.

    • Optionally, drizzle a bit more hoisin or sriracha over the filling for extra flavor.

  7. Serve Immediately:

    • Enjoy your tender beef bao buns warm as a main course or appetizer!

Notes

  • Ensure the liquid ingredients for the dough are warm—not hot—to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • For extra flavor and tenderness, consider slow-cooking the beef filling or marinating the meat before cooking.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute beef with shredded pork, chicken, or tofu, and adjust the sauces accordingly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbyandy.com/tender-beef-bao-buns-soft-fluffy-and-packed-with-flavor/