Chinese steamed buns with roasted chicken

Chinese Steamed Buns with Roasted Chicken: An Asian Delight

If you're looking for a unique, captivating, and flavorful recipe, you've come to the right place! Chinese steamed buns with roasted chicken are not only an excellent choice for a quick dinner but also a way to impress family and friends with your culinary skills. The origins of these buns are deeply rooted in Asian culinary traditions, where steaming is a popular method to retain the juiciness and flavor of the ingredients.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the buns:
- 300 grams of white flour (choose a high-quality flour for the best results)
- 1 1/3 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon oil plus 1 tablespoon for greasing
- 150 ml warm water (check the temperature; it should be warm, not hot)

For the filling:
- 1 skinless, boneless chicken breast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spicy sauce (my suggestion is piri-piri garlic sauce for a spicy and flavorful kick)
- 1/3 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Lettuce (optional, for added freshness)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by combining the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. This mixture will create the perfect base for your buns. Gradually add the warm water mixed with the oil, stirring constantly until you achieve a smooth dough. If you feel the dough is too dry, don't hesitate to add a little water. If it's too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour.

2. Kneading the dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the gluten and achieving a fine, firm dough. Once done, place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, turning it to coat completely. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise at room temperature for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until it doubles in size.

3. Shaping the buns:
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 balls the size of a fist. Place the balls on a baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Let them rise again for 30 minutes. Then, flatten each ball with the palm of your hand to form discs about 1/2 cm thick. Brush the surface with oil and fold them in half, then brush the top side with oil. Cover them again with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Steaming:
In a wok, add a little water and place a steamer, making sure to line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the buns spaced apart in the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam over medium heat for 10 minutes. It's important not to lift the lid during cooking to allow the steam to work effectively.

5. Preparing the chicken:
Meanwhile, in another wok, heat a little oil and slice the chicken breast lengthwise into thin strips. Season with salt and pepper, then fry on both sides for 2-3 minutes until golden and cooked through.

6. Assembling the buns:
Each steamed bun will be filled with spicy sauce inside. Add the cucumber slices, followed by the pieces of chicken and the sliced green onions. Finally, top with fresh lettuce leaves for an extra crunch and freshness. At this point, you can serve them immediately to enjoy the fluffy texture and delicious aroma!

Serving suggestions:
These Chinese steamed buns with roasted chicken pair perfectly with a crunchy cabbage salad or a sweet and sour sauce. You can accompany them with a refreshing drink, such as green tea or a fruit cocktail for a true Asian feast.

Useful tips and variations:
- You can replace the chicken breast with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different sauces; soy sauce or hoisin sauce can add a savory note.
- If you want to keep them longer, the buns can be frozen after cooking, and then you can re-steam them.

Nutritional information:
These buns contain approximately 250 calories per serving, making them a delicious and satisfying option that offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you will need to adjust the amount of water to achieve a proper dough.

2. What other fillings can I use?
In addition to chicken, you can add shrimp, sautéed vegetables, or even cheese for a vegetarian version.

3. How can I tell when the buns are ready?
The buns are ready when they have a fluffy texture, and when touched, they are firm yet elastic.

Enjoy these Chinese steamed buns with roasted chicken and let yourself be carried away into the world of Asian flavors! This recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but will also beautify your meals with a touch of creativity and passion for cooking.