Try this recipe for sheng jian bao – super juicy and incredibly flavorful beef stuffed into a fluffy yet crispy pan-fried wrapper that satisfies on every level. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, these buns offer a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious flavor: The blend of ground beef with aromatic seasonings creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Crispy texture: The pan-frying method gives the buns a satisfying crunch while keeping the inside moist and tender.
- Versatile serving options: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a larger meal; they fit perfectly in any setting.
- Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find this recipe accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Impressive presentation: These buns look as good as they taste, making them perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect sheng jian bao, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Each one plays a role in ensuring your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Frying pan or skillet
- Steamer basket
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is crucial for combining dough ingredients without mess.
- Rolling pin: This tool helps achieve the perfect thickness for your dough, ensuring even cooking.
- Frying pan or skillet: A durable frying pan provides the ideal surface for achieving that crispy exterior while cooking evenly.
- Steamer basket: A steamer basket ensures that your buns cook through properly and maintain moisture during the steaming process.
Ingredients
Try this recipe for sheng jian bao – super juicy and incredibly flavorful beef stuffed into a fluffy yet crispy pan-fried wrapper that satisfies on every level.
For the Dough
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 250 g (1 2/3 cup) all-purpose flour
- 50 g (1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon) cornstarch
- 4 g (3/4 teaspoon) instant yeast
- 5 g (1 teaspoon) sugar
- 150 g (2/3 cup) warm water
- 15 g (1 tablespoon) vegetable oil
For the Filling
- 8 oz (227 g) ground beef
- 1 1/2 teaspoons light soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons Shaoxing apple vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
For Cooking
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup hot water, separated
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (Optional)
- Roasted sesame seeds, for garnish (Optional)
How to Make Sheng Jian Bao
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, instant yeast, sugar, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, mix ground beef with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, salt, sugar, ground white pepper, green onions, and toasted sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
Once rested, divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a flat circle about 3 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Gather the edges of the dough around the filling to form a bun shape.
Step 4: Cook the Buns
Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Arrange the buns in the pan and add hot water around them. Cover immediately to steam them while they fry. Cook until golden brown on one side; then flip carefully to crisp up the other side.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked through and crispy on both sides, transfer to a plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and roasted sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade sheng jian bao!
How to Serve Sheng Jian Bao
Sheng Jian Bao is a delightful dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer or a main meal, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Dipping Sauces
- Soy Sauce Mixture: Combine light soy sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of vinegar for a savory dip.
- Chili Oil: Add some heat with chili oil, perfect for those who enjoy spicy flavors.
Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
- Sliced Green Onions: Serve alongside thinly sliced green onions to enhance the flavor profile.
Side Salads
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds a refreshing contrast.
- Asian Slaw: An Asian-inspired slaw with cabbage and carrots complements the richness of the buns.
How to Perfect Sheng Jian Bao
Perfecting your sheng jian bao can take time, but these tips will help you achieve restaurant-style results at home.
- Use Warm Water: Start with warm water when making the dough; it helps activate the yeast effectively.
- Knead Well: Knead the dough until smooth; this creates a fluffy texture in your buns.
- Rest the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes; this improves elasticity and makes rolling easier.
- Balance Filling Seasoning: Ensure your beef filling has a balanced flavor with enough seasoning; taste it before wrapping!
- Control Heat While Cooking: Keep an eye on your pan’s heat; too high may burn the bottoms while leaving them uncooked inside.
Best Side Dishes for Sheng Jian Bao
When serving sheng jian bao, side dishes can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Sesame Spinach Salad: A simple salad tossed with sesame dressing that adds crunch and flavor.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies offer a delightful contrast in texture.
- Hot and Sour Soup: This classic soup adds warmth and tanginess, balancing the richness of the buns.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering other flavors.
- Fried Rice: A small serving of fried rice complements sheng jian bao well and rounds out the meal.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables provide a refreshing bite that cuts through richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making sheng jian bao can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can make it challenging. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for the best results in your dough and filling.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest helps develop its texture. Don’t rush this step; it improves flavor and makes it easier to work with.
- Using cold water for the dough: Warm water activates the yeast effectively. Always use warm water to ensure a fluffy texture in your buns.
- Overstuffing the buns: It’s tempting to add more filling, but overstuffed buns can burst while cooking. Stick to the recommended amount for perfect results.
- Not preheating the pan properly: A hot pan is essential for achieving that crispy bottom. Preheat it well before adding your buns.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sheng jian bao in an airtight container.
- They will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sheng Jian Bao
- Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Sheng Jian Bao
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware this may soften the bun’s texture.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water to a skillet, cover, and steam on low heat for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about sheng jian bao:
What is Sheng Jian Bao?
Sheng jian bao are pan-fried buns filled with juicy beef, offering a delightful combination of crispy and fluffy textures.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey in place of beef. Just adjust seasoning as needed.
How do I know when Sheng Jian Bao are cooked?
They should have a golden-brown bottom with a fluffy top. Cut one open to check if the filling is steaming hot.
Can I make these buns vegan?
You can create a vegan version using plant-based ground meat alternatives and omitting any animal-derived ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Sheng jian bao not only brings an exciting taste experience but also offers versatility in filling options. Whether you choose beef or another protein, these buns can be customized to suit your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how satisfying they are!
Sheng Jian Bao
Experience the delightful blend of textures and flavors with homemade Sheng Jian Bao. These pan-fried buns, filled with juicy ground beef and aromatic seasonings, are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or impressive appetizers at your dinner parties, these buns are sure to be a hit! Easy to prepare with accessible ingredients, you’ll enjoy creating this delicious dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 250 g (1 2/3 cup) all-purpose flour
- 50 g (1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon) cornstarch
- 4 g (3/4 teaspoon) instant yeast
- 5 g (1 teaspoon) sugar
- 150 g (2/3 cup) warm water
- 15 g (1 tablespoon) vegetable oil
- 8 oz (227 g) ground beef
- 1 1/2 teaspoons light soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons apple vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup hot water, separated
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (Optional)
- Roasted sesame seeds, for garnish (Optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, instant yeast, sugar, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix ground beef with light soy sauce, apple vinegar, salt, sugar, ground white pepper, green onions, and toasted sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Once rested, divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a flat circle about 3 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Gather the edges of the dough around the filling to form a bun shape.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Arrange the buns in the pan and add hot water around them. Cover immediately to steam them while they fry. Cook until golden brown on one side; then flip carefully to crisp up the other side.
- Once cooked through and crispy on both sides, transfer to a plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and roasted sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade sheng jian bao!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Use warm water for better yeast activation. Adjust seasoning in the filling to suit your taste preferences. Try using ground chicken or turkey as an alternative to beef.
