Bao Buns are a Chinese steamed bun that can be stuffed or served plain as a side. This recipe transforms them into burger buns, perfect for dishes like Chinese Cumin Beef Burger. They can also be made smaller for accompanying other dishes.
Step 1: Combine warm water, warm milk, sugar (2 Tbsp), and active dry yeast in a bowl; whisk together and set aside for 5-10 minutes.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients.
Step 3: When the yeast mixture is bubbly and activated, add it to the dry ingredients and knead for 5-8 minutes.
Step 4: Cover the dough and set aside in a warm area for 2 hours.
Step 5: Form the bao buns or burger buns, keeping them smaller as they will rise a lot.
Step 6: Allow them to rise, covered in your steamer, for 1 hour.
Step 7: Bring 1/2 inch of water to a boil and add the steamer on top of the water.
Step 8: Steam for 8-10 minutes, then remove and let sit, covered until ready to serve.
