Putian Bun

Ingredients

The Putian Bun differs from the original Boston Bun in terms of its filling and flavor profile. While the Boston Bun is typically sweet and filled with ingredients like raisins and cinnamon, the Putian Bun takes on a savory twist. The filling of minced pork, dried shrimp, mushrooms, and traditional Putian spices adds a depth of umami flavors to the bun, making it a savory delight. We alse have the original recipe for Boston Bun, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 200g minced pork 200g minced pork
• 50g dried shrimp, soaked and chopped 50g dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
• 50g mushrooms, finely chopped 50g mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) oyster sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) Shaoxing wine 1 tablespoon (15ml) Shaoxing wine
• 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar 1 teaspoon (5g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) five-spice powder 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) five-spice powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) white pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) white pepper

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, vegetable oil, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the minced pork, dried shrimp, mushrooms, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, five-spice powder, and white pepper.
5. 5.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small portions. Flatten each portion into a circle and spoon a generous amount of the filling into the center. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal.
6. 6.
   Place the filled buns on a steamer lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. 7.
   Steam the buns over high heat for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
8. 8.
   Serve the Putian Buns warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dried shrimp — Make sure to soak the dried shrimp in water before chopping to soften them and remove excess saltiness.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling mixture.
• You can substitute minced chicken or beef for the minced pork if desired.
• Ensure the dough is well-risen before steaming to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Serve the Putian Buns with a side of soy sauce or chili sauce for dipping.
• Leftover buns can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated by steaming for a few minutes.

Serving advice

Serve the warm Putian Buns as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Putian Buns on a serving platter, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch of color and texture.