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Gluten Free Bao

Gluten Free Bao: Fluffy Buns That Melt in Your Mouth

Indulge in Gluten Free Bao, fluffy meat buns perfect for elevating homemade meals with customizable fillings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Gluten-Free
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups gluten-free flour blend Avoid blends with xanthan gum unless necessary
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast Use active dry yeast if necessary, proof first
  • 1 teaspoon salt Sea or kosher salt work best
  • 1 cup warm water Should be about 110°F
For the Filling
  • 1 pound ground pork or chicken Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based proteins
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce Use Tamari for a gluten-free alternative
  • 2 stalks green onions Chives are a nice alternative
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger Ground ginger can be substituted
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil Olive oil can be used as an alternative

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • wooden spoon
  • floured surface
  • Steamer Basket
  • parchment paper
  • Airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually pour in warm water while stirring until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
  2. Transfer the sticky dough to a clean, floured surface. Knead it gently for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and slightly elastic.
  3. Shape the dough into a ball and place it into a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the filling by mixing the ground pork or chicken, low-sodium soy sauce, chopped green onions, minced fresh ginger, and sesame oil in a medium bowl.
  5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into equal portions and roll each piece into a ball, then flatten each into a circle.
  6. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Pinch the edges together, sealing them tightly.
  7. Line a steamer basket with parchment paper and arrange the filled buns on it, giving them space to expand. Preheat your steamer over medium heat.
  8. Place the steamer basket over simmering water and cover with a lid. Steam the Gluten Free Bao for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fluffy and shiny.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bunCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Make a batch ahead of time and steam them directly from the freezer when cravings hit. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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