Doushabao with Red Bean Paste

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1 cup (230g) homemade red bean paste 1 cup (230g) homemade red bean paste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 20g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour in the yeast mixture while stirring the flour mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. 5.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a small circle.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center of each dough circle. Gather the edges and pinch them together to seal the filling.
7. 7.
   Arrange the filled buns on a steamer lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each bun to allow for expansion.
8. 8.
   Cover the steamer and let the buns rise for another 15 minutes.
9. 9.
   Steam the buns over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the dough is fluffy.
10. 10.
    Remove the steamer from heat and let the buns cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Red bean paste — If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the red bean paste after cooking it to remove any lumps or skins.

Tips & Tricks

• To ensure a light and fluffy texture, make sure the dough rises in a warm place free from drafts.
• If you don't have homemade red bean paste, you can use store-bought red bean paste as a substitute.
• For a variation, you can add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top of each bun before steaming.
• Serve the Doushabao warm for the best taste and texture.
• Leftover Doushabao can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Doushabao as a delightful dessert or enjoy them as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed Doushabao on a beautiful plate or bamboo steamer to showcase their delicate appearance. Dust them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.