Chinese Steamed Buns: A Soft And Fluffy Mantou Recipe

Step 1

In a large bowl, add the lukewarm water, granulated sugar, and sprinkle yeast granules in it. Do not stir it and let the yeast bloom undisturbed for about 5 minutes. Add flour to the yeast mixture and slowly knead everything in to a soft and smooth dough.

Step 2

The dough might seem a bit sticky in the beginning and you may add a tablespoon more of the dough if required. Cover the bowl with a moist cloth and keep it in a warm place for about an hour or until the dough rises to double in its original size. Now, lightly dust a clean rolling surface and knead the dough again for about 3 to 4 minutes. Roll the risen dough in to a long roll of about an inch thickness and use a sharp knife to cut 1 inch thick pieces of the dough.

Step 3

Prepare a steamer (but do not turn it on yet) and then place the dough pieces on the rack at a distance of about 2 inches from one another. Let the dough rise for another 10 to 15 minutes. Now, steam the buns for about 20 minutes or until the buns are fluffy and well cooked. Wait for 5 minutes before opening the lid and then serve hot buns!