Vegetarian Steamed Buns

Step 1

In a bowl, mix the flour, yeast, baking powder, sugar, and salt together. Add the sesame oil and stir lightly. Slowly mix in the water and stir to combine. Knead the dough on a lightly floured, clean work surface until the dough is smooth, about 5 minutes. Place the dough ball into a medium size bowl, cover with plastic wrap and put into a larger bowl filled with 3 or so inches of hot water. Place these into either the oven or microwave and let rise for 30 minutes, or until dough doubles in size.

Step 2

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Steam the cabbage for 1 minute then drain the water (squeeze the water out as best you can). Chop the cabbage finely. Add the rest of the filling ingredients and mix thoroughly. Set the filling aside.

Step 3

After 30 minutes or more, the dough should have doubled in volume. Knead the dough lightly to expel any air pockets. Roll into a cylinder on a floured board, and cut into 8 equal pieces. Put a drop or two of sesame oil in your palm to coat hands (for each ball). Roll each piece into a ball, and place under a wet kitchen towel and allow to rest for 10 minutes (the dough will rise again).

Step 4

Roll out dough into 4-inch diameter circles. Place a small ball of filling in center. Form pleats in dough as you seal the buns by twisting (make sure they have a nice seal).Place finished buns on baking paper sheets.

Step 5

Place the filled buns into warm bamboo steamer or rice cooker (as we did) and let steam for 15 to 20 minutes. The buns will almost double in size. Serve with soy sauce and/or hot chili sauce.