Chinese Steamed Buns

Ingredients

• Cornstarch (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated)
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon)
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Green onions (4, finely chopped)
• Pork (1 pound, ground)
• Warm water (1 cup)
• Sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons)
• All-purpose flour (3 cups)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the frothy yeast mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, which should take about 10 minutes.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the ground pork, finely chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and cornstarch. This will be your savory bun filling.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each portion into a circle. Place a spoonful of the savory pork filling in the center of each circle.
6. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal the filling inside. Place the buns on a steamer lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart to prevent sticking.
7. Steam the buns over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the filling is hot and juicy.
8. Serve the Chinese steamed buns hot, and enjoy! For an authentic experience, pair the buns with a cup of Chinese tea.