Chinese
👍 Beginner Friendly
15 mineasy
ChineseBreakfast
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsThese soft, pillowy steamed buns represent a beloved homestyle preparation found throughout various Chinese regions. The tender dough envelops a savory filling of gently scrambled eggs mixed with fresh chives, touched with sesame oil and white pepper. The steaming method keeps the buns incredibly moist while allowing the filling to remain light and fluffy. This dish showcases the beauty of simple ingredients elevated through proper technique, offering a satisfying balance of protein and aromatics that makes for an ideal morning meal. The gentle cooking process preserves nutrients while creating a comforting texture that appeals to all ages. Perfect for family gatherings or quiet mornings, these buns can be prepared ahead and resteamed when needed.
Instructions
step by step0/8 done
In a large bowl, combine flour with warm water and yeast. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 1 hour until doubled in size.
While dough rises, prepare filling: Beat eggs with salt and white pepper. Heat wok with sesame oil over medium heat and scramble eggs gently until just set but still soft. Remove from heat and fold in finely chopped chives. Let cool completely.
Punch down risen dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 4 inches in diameter, keeping the edges slightly thinner than the center.
Place 2-3 tablespoons of egg filling in the center of each dough circle. Gather edges upward and pinch together firmly to seal, creating a rounded bun shape.
Place each bun on a small square of parchment paper. Arrange in bamboo steamer baskets, leaving 2 inches between each bun for expansion.
Cover and let buns rest for 15 minutes for second rise.
Fill wok or large pot with water and bring to a vigorous boil. Stack steamer baskets over boiling water, cover with lid, and steam for 12-15 minutes until buns are puffed and cooked through.
Remove from heat and let stand covered for 2 minutes before opening. Serve immediately while hot and fluffy.
Bamboo Steamer Egg and Chive Buns
4.4 (51)
Fluffy steamed buns filled with a delicate mixture of scrambled eggs, fresh chives, and aromatic seasonings, creating a warm and comforting morning meal that embodies authentic regional home cooking traditions.
medium
1h 10m
8 servings
Ingredients
0 of 8 checked
Dough
- 3 cups flour, sifted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, fine
- 1 tablespoons canola-oil, neutral
Filling
- 6 pieces eggs, beaten
- 4 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sesame-oil, toasted
- 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
- 1 teaspoons ginger, minced (optional)
Chef Tips
expert advice•The key to perfect buns is maintaining consistent steam throughout cooking - avoid lifting the lid during steaming.
•For extra flavor, add minced ginger or garlic to the egg mixture.
•If chives are unavailable, substitute with green onions or Chinese garlic chives.
•The dough can be made the night before and refrigerated for a slower rise, which develops better flavor.
•Leftover buns freeze excellently and can be resteamed directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to steaming time.
•For a richer filling, add a small amount of finely diced ham or dried shrimp.
•Ensure eggs are not overcooked in the filling stage as they will continue cooking during steaming.
