Hainanese Spiced Bun

Ingredients

The Hainanese Spiced Bun differs from the original Jamaican Spiced Bun in terms of flavor profile and ingredients. While the Jamaican version is typically sweeter and spicier, the Hainanese adaptation incorporates the aromatic spices and flavors commonly found in Hainanese cuisine. Additionally, the Hainanese Spiced Bun may include ingredients such as five-spice powder and dried fruits, which are not typically used in the Jamaican version. We alse have the original recipe for Jamaican Spiced Bun, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
• 50g (1/4 cup) sugar 50g (1/4 cup) sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp five-spice powder 1 tsp five-spice powder
• 1 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 250ml (1 cup) warm water 250ml (1 cup) warm water
• 50g (1/4 cup) butter, melted 50g (1/4 cup) butter, melted
• 100g (1/2 cup) dried fruits (such as raisins or currants) 100g (1/2 cup) dried fruits (such as raisins or currants)
• 50g (1/4 cup) chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) 50g (1/4 cup) chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 12g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, five-spice powder, ground ginger, and minced garlic.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the warm water and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, 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 knead in the dried fruits and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a bun.
7. 7.
   Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
8. 8.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
9. 9.
   Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dried fruits — Soak the dried fruits in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough. This will help to soften them and prevent them from becoming too dry during baking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of ground white pepper to the dough.
• Experiment with different combinations of dried fruits and nuts to customize the bun to your liking.
• Serve the Hainanese Spiced Bun warm with a spread of butter for an extra indulgent treat.
• Store any leftover buns in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• These buns can be frozen and reheated in a toaster oven for a quick and convenient snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Hainanese Spiced Bun as a breakfast treat, a snack with tea or coffee, or as a delightful addition to a brunch spread. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a spread of butter for an extra touch of richness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Hainanese Spiced Buns on a serving platter, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. For an elegant touch, serve them in individual bread baskets lined with colorful napkins.