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tofu steamed buns in a steamer basket.

Tofu Steamed Buns

These Tofu Steamed Buns have a soft, fluffy homemade dough filled with browned tofu coated in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. Steamed until pillowy and tender, they're a delicious homemade vegan bao.
5 from 5 votes
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Resting: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 Buns
Author: Liv King

Ingredients
 

Steamed Buns:

  • 2 cups All Purpose Flour
  • 1 Packet of Instant Yeast 2 ¼ tsp
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ¾ cup of Water heated between 120-130
  • 1 tablespoon Oil

Tofu Filling:

  • 1 block Extra Firm Tofu
  • ⅓ cup Red Onion minced
  • ¼ cup Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce
  • ¼ cup Water
  • 1 tablespoon White or Rice Vinegar
  • 2 teaspoon Sesame Oil
  • 2 teaspoon Chili Garlic Sauce
  • ¼ cup Organic Sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon Chinese Five Spice optional

Instructions

  • Combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Heat the water to the temperature specified on the package of your instant yeast, then add it along with the oil. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 7-10 minutes. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour.
  • Finely chop the tofu and red onion. Cook in a little oil over medium-high heat until the tofu is lightly browned and the onion has softened. Add the sauce and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the tofu has absorbed the sauce. Set aside to cool.
  • Punch down the risen dough, knead briefly, and shape it into a log. Divide into 12 equal pieces, roll each into a ball, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes.
  • Roll each piece of dough into a circle about ¼–½ inch thick. Add a heaping 2 tablespoons of tofu filling, then seal the dough around the filling. Place the filled buns on a baking tray, cover, and let rest for another 30 minutes.
  • Arrange the buns in a steamer basket with space between them. Place over simmering water, cover, and steam for 10 minutes.
  • Remove the steamer from the heat but do not open the lid yet. Leave the buns covered for another 5 minutes, then uncover and serve.

Notes

Storing & Reheating: Store leftover steamed buns in the fridge or freezer. Reheat in the microwave by cooking for 1 to 2 minutes or alternatively, you could steam for 5 minutes. Thaw frozen buns and reheat the same way. 
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