There’s something absolutely delightful about the soft, pillowy texture of Steamed Pork Buns with Chive, especially when they’re fresh out of the steamer. I remember the first time I tasted these little treasures at a bustling dim sum restaurant, each bite bursting with flavor and warmth. Inspired by that moment, I set out to recreate them at home, swapping takeout for a cozy kitchen adventure.
Whipping up these buns might seem daunting, but I promise that each step is simple and rewarding. With the fragrant kick of ginger, tender ground pork, and the delightful crunch of chives, every bun you make is sure to impress family and friends. Plus, the hands-on process of pleating and sealing these morsels is incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to wow guests with a unique dish, these pork buns are the answer. Grab your apron, and let’s bring a touch of homemade goodness to your dining table!
Why Love Steamed Pork Buns with Chive?
Delightful texture: The fluffy, steamed buns provide a comforting bite that’s hard to resist.
Flavor explosion: Each bun is filled with savory ground pork, aromatic ginger, and fresh chives, delivering a feast for your taste buds.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be whipping these up at home in no time.
Perfect for gatherings: These bites are great for sharing, making them a hit at any get-together.
Versatile dipping sauces: Serve with a variety of sauces like Chinkiang vinegar or homemade chili oil to enhance the experience.
Your culinary adventure awaits—if you’re ready for more culinary inspiration, check out my delicious homemade dumplings!
Steamed Pork Buns with Chive Ingredients
• Get ready to create delicious Steamed Pork Buns with Chive! Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough
• 300 g all-purpose flour – This creates the fluffy, soft buns you’ll crave.
• 3 g active dry yeast – Key for making the dough rise and become delightfully airy.
• 4 g sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance flavors in the dough.
• 120 ml boiling water – Helps activate the ginger flavor in your buns.
• 150 ml warm water – Needed for activating the yeast properly for that perfect dough.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
For the Filling
• 300 g ground pork – The star of the show that provides a rich, savory base.
• 2 ” ginger, minced – Adds a zesty kick that complements the pork beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Infuses the filling with deep, umami flavor.
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce – Provides a savory depth to the mix.
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce – Adds color and a touch more richness.
• 1/2 tablespoon Shaoxing wine – A splash of this cooking wine elevates the filling’s flavor.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch – This helps bind your filling for a satisfying texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar – To balance out the savory notes of the filling.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper – A subtle kick that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil – For that nutty, aromatic finish.
• 8 stalks Chinese chives, sliced into 1/4” pieces – Adds freshness and a lovely crunch to the filling.
For Dipping
• Chinkiang vinegar – A tangy dip that complements the buns perfectly.
• Soy sauce (optional) – For those who love a classic dipping experience.
• Homemade chili oil (optional) – Add if you crave a spicy kick with your buns!
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be ready to dive into the adventure of making these Steamed Pork Buns with Chive in your own kitchen!
How to Make Steamed Pork Buns with Chive
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Prepare ginger water: Start by adding minced ginger to a bowl and covering it with boiling water. Let it cool completely before straining to eliminate the ginger pieces.
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Activate the yeast: Heat your warm water to about 110°F (43°C). Then, stir in the sugar until fully dissolved. Add the yeast and allow it to sit for around 5 minutes until it begins to bubble.
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Mix the dough (stand mixer): If you’re using a stand mixer, place the flour in the bowl, pour in the activated yeast water, and mix on low speed with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Increase the speed and mix until smooth, approximately 15 minutes. Add more water gradually if necessary.
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Mix the dough (hand kneading): For those opting to hand knead, drizzle the yeast water into the flour while stirring with chopsticks. Once combined, knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic—this should take you about 15 to 18 minutes.
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Let it rise: Cover your dough with plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm place until it’s doubled in size, which usually takes about 1 hour.
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Prepare the filling: While waiting, mix the ground pork with the strained ginger water and the remaining filling ingredients (excluding the sesame oil and chives). Beat the mixture until the liquid is absorbed and the pork looks streaky. Finally, incorporate the sesame oil and chives, mixing well before refrigerating.
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Set up the steamer: Line your steamer with steamer paper or parchment paper to prevent the buns from sticking.
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Shape the buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead it gently again. Divide it into two pieces, keeping one covered. Roll one piece into a log, cut it into 6 equal pieces, and shape each piece into a disk. Roll each disk into a 4.5-inch wrapper.
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Fill the buns: Place approximately 2 tablespoons of your filling onto each wrapper. Carefully pleat and seal the bun tightly to enclose the filling.
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Steam the buns: Arrange the buns in your steamer, ensuring there’s enough space between each one. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 15 minutes. Then, steam over high heat for about 15 minutes.
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Cool slightly: Once steamed, remove the buns and let them sit for 2 minutes before serving.
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Serve with sauces: Enjoy your steaming hot buns with your choice of dipping sauces!
Optional: Sprinkle with additional chopped chives for an extra burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Steamed Pork Buns with Chive
Room Temperature: Keep the steamed buns at room temperature for up to 2 hours, covered with a clean kitchen towel to maintain moisture.
Fridge: Store leftover steamed pork buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them by steaming for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns, placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring to an airtight bag once frozen. Enjoy within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating: To reheat frozen buns, steam them frozen for about 10-12 minutes. This keeps them soft and fluffy, just like when they were freshly made!
Make Ahead Options
These Steamed Pork Buns with Chive are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal on a busy weeknight. For optimal flavor, make the filling and refrigerate it separately while allowing the dough to rise and then store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply shape the buns, let them rise for another 15 minutes, and steam them for 15 minutes. This way, you’ll have freshly made, delicious buns that are just as delightful as if you made them from scratch that same day!
What to Serve with Steamed Pork Buns with Chive?
There’s nothing quite like creating a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements these fluffy treasures, ensuring your meal is memorable.
- Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the warm buns.
- Dumpling Soup: Light and flavorful, a warm broth enhances the overall experience, balancing the richness of the pork.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This vibrant side dish brings a delicate crunch and a slight bitterness that complements the savory buns beautifully.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: With its sweet and spicy notes, this sauce adds a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with the rich pork filling.
- Sesame Noodles: Nutty, flavorful noodles tossed in sesame oil make for an indulgent side, enhancing the whole meal with their richness.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy dressing can refresh your palate, making each bite of the bun even more delightful.
- Green Tea: The subtle flavors of green tea cleanse your palate and perfectly balance the richness of the buns.
- Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and creamy dessert to end your meal on a high note, its tropical flavors provide a lovely contrast to the pork buns.
- Coconut Milk Dessert: Light and sweet, a chilled version can be a refreshing finish to your savory meal.
- Lychee Cocktail: This fruity cocktail refreshes your taste buds and pairs beautifully with the flavors in the buns for a delightful evening.
Expert Tips for Steamed Pork Buns with Chive
• Perfect Dough: Make sure your water is at the right temperature (110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast properly, ensuring a successful rise.
• Knead Well: Whether using a mixer or kneading by hand, aim for a smooth, elastic dough. Under-kneading can lead to denser buns.
• Cool Rising: Let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for the best results. If too cold, it won’t rise properly, affecting texture.
• Pleat with Care: When sealing the buns, ensure they’re tightly closed to prevent any filling from leaking during steaming.
• Steaming Tips: Don’t overcrowd the steamer; give each bun room to expand. This ensures even cooking and that perfect fluffy bite.
Enjoy the process and savor every moment making these delightful Steamed Pork Buns with Chive!
Steamed Pork Buns with Chive Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delightful pork buns—your taste buds will thank you!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground pork with finely chopped shiitake mushrooms or tempeh for a delicious plant-based twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or minced jalapeños to the filling for that extra heat if you love spicy food.
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Herb Boost: Swap Chinese chives for finely chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh flavor variation that brightens every bite.
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Sweet Surprise: Incorporate a tablespoon of hoisin sauce into the filling to add a sweet depth that complements the savory pork beautifully.
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Savory Cheese: Mix in a bit of cream cheese or crumbled feta for creamy bites that melt in your mouth, enhancing each bun’s texture.
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Cabbage Crunch: Add shredded napa cabbage or bok choy into the filling for extra crunch and a touch of freshness in every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough, ensuring everyone can indulge in these delightful steamed buns.
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Flavored Dough: Consider infusing the dough with a hint of five-spice powder for a warm, aromatic layer in the bread itself.
Transform these buns into a personalized masterpiece—your kitchen is the canvas!
Steamed Pork Buns with Chive Recipe FAQs
What type of ginger should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Fresh ginger is best as it provides a more potent and aromatic flavor compared to powdered ginger. Look for firm, smooth ginger roots without any dark spots or wrinkles. The fresher the ginger, the more vibrant your buns will taste!
How should I store leftover steamed pork buns?
To keep those delicious steamed pork buns fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, steam for about 5 minutes to reheat and restore that soft, fluffy texture you love.
Can I freeze the steamed pork buns?
Definitely! To freeze, first, place the buns in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour until they’re firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply steam them from frozen for about 10-12 minutes.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast’s activity first. Make sure the water you used was at the right temperature (around 110°F or 43°C) and that the yeast isn’t expired. If everything is fine, let the dough sit in a warm, draft-free area. Remember, patience is key; sometimes it just needs a little extra time!
Are steamed pork buns safe for those with food allergies?
For sure! While this recipe contains gluten, pork, and soy, you can make adjustments if needed. Consider using gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities or swapping pork for chicken or tofu. Always check ingredients on sauces, like oyster or soy sauce, for any allergens!
How can I make my buns more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, consider adding extra seasonings to the filling, like garlic or a dash of five-spice powder. Experiment with different dipping sauces too! A tangy Chinkiang vinegar or a spicy homemade chili oil can elevate every bite, making your steamed pork buns with chive truly unforgettable!
Savory Steamed Pork Buns with Chive: A Homemade Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare ginger water: Start by adding minced ginger to a bowl and covering it with boiling water. Let it cool completely before straining to eliminate the ginger pieces.
- Activate the yeast: Heat your warm water to about 110°F (43°C). Stir in the sugar until fully dissolved. Add the yeast and allow it to sit for around 5 minutes until it begins to bubble.
- Mix the dough (stand mixer): If you’re using a stand mixer, place the flour in the bowl, pour in the activated yeast water, and mix on low speed with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Increase the speed and mix until smooth, approximately 15 minutes. Add more water gradually if necessary.
- Mix the dough (hand kneading): For those opting to hand knead, drizzle the yeast water into the flour while stirring with chopsticks. Once combined, knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic—this should take you about 15 to 18 minutes.
- Let it rise: Cover your dough with plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm place until it’s doubled in size, which usually takes about 1 hour.
- Prepare the filling: While waiting, mix the ground pork with the strained ginger water and the remaining filling ingredients (excluding the sesame oil and chives). Beat the mixture until the liquid is absorbed and the pork looks streaky. Finally, incorporate the sesame oil and chives, mixing well before refrigerating.
- Set up the steamer: Line your steamer with steamer paper or parchment paper to prevent the buns from sticking.
- Shape the buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead it gently again. Divide it into two pieces, keeping one covered. Roll one piece into a log, cut it into 6 equal pieces, and shape each piece into a disk. Roll each disk into a 4.5-inch wrapper.
- Fill the buns: Place approximately 2 tablespoons of your filling onto each wrapper. Carefully pleat and seal the bun tightly to enclose the filling.
- Steam the buns: Arrange the buns in your steamer, ensuring there’s enough space between each one. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 15 minutes. Then, steam over high heat for about 15 minutes.
- Cool slightly: Once steamed, remove the buns and let them sit for 2 minutes before serving.
- Serve with sauces: Enjoy your steaming hot buns with your choice of dipping sauces!