Scallion Sesame Hot Dog Buns

Step 1

To make the tangzhong: Combine all of the ingredients in a small saucepan, and whisk until no lumps remain.

Step 2

Place the saucepan over low heat and cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until thick and the whisk leaves lines on the bottom of the pan, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 3

Transfer the tangzhong to a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.

Step 4

To make the dough: Pour the cold milk over the tangzhong to help it cool to lukewarm.

Step 5

Weigh your flour; or measure it by gently spooning it into a cup, then sweeping off any excess. Add the flour and remaining dough ingredients to the bowl with the tangzhong, then mix and knead — by mixer or bread machine — until a smooth, elastic dough forms; this could take almost 15 minutes in a stand mixer.

Step 6

Shape the dough into a ball, and let it rest in a lightly greased bowl, covered, for 60 to 90 minutes, until puffy but not necessarily doubled in bulk.

Step 7

Gently deflate the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces, about 85g each. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment.

Step 8

To shape the buns: On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll out each piece out into a rough 6" square. Sprinkle the surface with scallions. Place the hot dog on one edge, then roll it up in the dough. Set aside. Repeat with remaining dough and hot dogs.

Step 9

With a knife, cut each hot dog roll into six 1" pieces. Turn the pieces so the cut side of the hot dog is facing up and nestle each piece against each other to form a flower shape (one circle in the center, with five circles surrounding it). Set on the prepared baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 40 to 50 minutes, until puffy.

Step 10

Towards the end of rising time, preheat oven to 350°F.

Step 11

To bake the buns: Brush the buns with egg wash and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds.

Step 12

Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until golden brown on top.

Step 13

Transfer to a rack when cool enough to handle. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Step 14

Storage information: Store any leftover buns, well wrapped, in the refrigerator for several days.