Easy Bao Buns Recipe

Fluffy Perfection: The Easiest Bao Buns Recipe You’ll Ever Try!

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a soft, fluffy bao bun filled with delicious ingredients. It’s like holding a little piece of heaven in your hands! As someone who’s been obsessed with cooking and exploring Asian flavors, I can confidently say that making bao buns at home isn’t just rewarding—it’s also surprisingly easy. With a bit of effort and some simple ingredients, you can recreate the magic of these pillowy delights right in your kitchen.

Today, I’m sharing the easiest bao buns recipe that guarantees perfect results every time. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will be your go-to for impressing friends and family. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in some personal tips, product recommendations, and my favorite cookbook to inspire your bao bun journey!

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What Makes Bao Buns So Irresistible?

Bao buns, also known as Gua Bao or steamed buns, are a staple in Asian cuisine. Their signature fluffiness comes from the perfect balance of yeast in the dough and careful steaming. For me, the real magic lies in their versatility—you can stuff them with just about anything! From steamed chicken with sticky hoisin glaze to crispy fried chicken or tangy teriyaki pulled chicken, the options are endless.

But enough about the allure of bao buns; let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Fluffy Homemade Bao Buns

Here’s what you’ll need to make about 10 bao buns:

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

2 tbsp (25g) sugar

1 tsp salt

1 tsp instant yeast

2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil

¾ cup (180ml) warm water

1 tsp baking powder

For the Fillings:

You can get creative, but here are a few ideas:

1. Sticky Teriyaki Pulled Chicken:

• 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
• ? cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

2. Grilled Korean Chicken:

• 2 chicken thighs, marinated in gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and honey
• 3. Grilled to perfection

Crispy Fried Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts, breaded and fried until golden

4. BBQ Shredded Chicken:

• 2 cups pulled chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Making the perfect dough is crucial to achieving those soft, fluffy bao buns. Here’s how I do it:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.

2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Slowly add warm water and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.

4. First Proof: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shaping the Bao Buns

1. Divide the Dough: After proofing, punch down the dough and divide it into 10 equal portions.

2. Shape the Buns: Roll each portion into an oval, then fold in half and place on parchment paper squares.

3. Second Proof: Let the shaped buns rest for 30 minutes to puff up slightly.

Step 3: Steaming the Bao Buns

To steam the buns, you’ll need a steamer basket. I highly recommend the JOYCE CHEN Bamboo Steamer. It’s affordable, durable, and gives you authentic results. Bamboo steamers are perfect because they allow moisture to escape, preventing soggy buns.

Get yours here and elevate your homemade bao bun game: JOYCE CHEN Bamboo Steamer.

Steaming Instructions:

1. Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil.

2. Place the buns (with parchment paper) in the steamer basket, leaving space for expansion.

3. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until fluffy and cooked through.

Step 4: Preparing the Fillings

While your buns are steaming, it’s time to whip up the fillings. My personal favorite is the Sticky Teriyaki Pulled Chicken. Here’s how I make it:

1. Heat teriyaki sauce in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add shredded chicken and cook until well coated.

3. Sprinkle sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

For the adventurous, try grilling marinated Korean chicken or frying chicken to crispy perfection.

Recommended Kitchen Tool: Meat Shredder Claws

Shredding chicken can be time-consuming, but these Meat Shredder Claws make it effortless. Not only are they perfect for preparing pulled chicken for bao buns, but they’re also handy for BBQs and roasts.

Upgrade your kitchen with these claws: Meat Shredder Claws.

Step 5: Assembling the Bao Buns

Now comes the fun part—assembling your bao buns!

1. Gently open each steamed bun.

2. Spread a thin layer of sauce (hoisin, mayo, or chili oil) inside.

3. Stuff with your chosen filling, along with fresh toppings like cucumber slices, pickled carrots, or cilantro.

4. Serve immediately and enjoy the fluffy, flavorful goodness!

My Favorite Cookbook Recommendation

For more inspiration on Asian cooking, I highly recommend "101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die: Discover a New World of Flavors in Authentic Recipes" It’s packed with authentic recipes and stunning photography, making it a must-have for any food enthusiast.

Get your copy today: “101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die: Discover a New World of Flavors in Authentic Recipes"

Why Homemade Bao Buns Are Worth It

As I worked on this blog post, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my first attempt at making bao buns. I was intimidated at first, but the moment I tasted that fluffy homemade bun, I knew I’d never go back to store-bought again. The joy of crafting something so delicious from scratch is unmatched, and it’s even more rewarding when you get to share it with loved ones.

Homemade bao buns are also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with flavors like crispy chicken, shredded chicken, or grilled Korean chicken. Plus, it’s a great way to save money while indulging in a gourmet experience.

Take the Plunge into Bao Bun Bliss

Making bao buns might seem daunting at first, but this bao buns recipe easy will walk you through every step with confidence. From preparing the perfect dough to exploring creative filling options like sticky teriyaki pulled chicken or crispy fried chicken, you’re in for a culinary adventure.

So why not give it a try? Grab your ingredients, invest in a bamboo steamer and meat shredder claws, and start crafting fluffy perfection today. Don’t forget to pick up The Food of Asia for even more inspiration—because once you’ve mastered bao buns, the world of Asian cooking is your oyster.

Now, it’s your turn to shine in the kitchen. What fillings will you try first? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your bao bun creations with your friends.