Traditional Shanghai Buns

Traditional Shanghai Buns are a classic Chinese dish that is loved by many. These buns are soft, fluffy, and filled with a delicious meat filling. If you're looking to make these buns at home, then you're in luck! This recipe will guide you through the process of making Traditional Shanghai Buns that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:

For the dough:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt

For the filling:

- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup chopped scallions
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure the water you use for the dough is warm, but not too hot. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising.
- Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes to ensure it is smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for at least an hour to ensure it is fluffy and light.
- When forming the buns, make sure the filling is completely enclosed in the dough to prevent it from leaking out during cooking.

Cooking Process:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Slowly add in the warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 hour.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the ground pork, scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
4. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a circle.
5. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle of dough. Pinch the edges of the dough together to completely enclose the filling.
6. Place the buns on a greased baking sheet and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, until they are golden brown.
Appearance and Taste:
Traditional Shanghai Buns are a type of steamed bun that is filled with a savory meat filling. The buns are soft and fluffy, with a slightly sweet flavor from the dough. The filling is made with ground pork, scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, and salt, giving it a rich and savory taste. When cooked, the buns have a golden brown color and a slightly crispy exterior. These buns are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Type of Dish: Steamed Buns
Main Ingredients: Pork, Scallions, Flour