Recipe: Steamed Chinese Hot Water Dough Buns (Baozi)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Filling of your choice (vegetables, meat, or sweet bean paste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt.
   • Carefully pour the boiling water into the flour while stirring with a wooden spoon. The flour will begin to clump together.
   • Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • While the dough is resting, prepare your desired filling. For a savory option, sauté vegetables, or cook minced meat with your favorite seasonings. For a sweet version, you can use sweet bean paste.
3. Shape the Buns:
   • After the dough has rested, divide it into equal portions (around 12 pieces).
   • Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a small circle.
   • Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
   • Gather the edges of the dough and pleat them together to seal the filling inside. Pinch the top to close it securely.
4. Steam the Buns:
   • Place the buns on parchment paper in a steamer basket, leaving space between them.
   • Cover the steamer and let the buns rise for 15 minutes.
   • Bring water to a boil in a steamer pot. Place the steamer basket over the pot, cover, and steam the buns for about 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is fully cooked.
5. Serve:
   • Carefully remove the buns from the steamer and serve them hot. These buns are soft, fluffy, and delicious, perfect for any occasion!

Enjoy these steamed hot water dough buns, a delightful treat that’s sure to impress anyone who tries them!