Steamed Buns with Filling

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. Mix well.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small circle, about 4 inches in diameter.
6. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, creating a bun shape.
7. Arrange the filled buns on a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each bun to allow for expansion.
8. Fill a pot or wok with water and bring it to a boil. Place the steamer basket on top and cover with a lid. Steam the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the filling is hot.
9. Serve the steamed buns hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.