Steamed Lotus Seed Buns

Ingredients

In Chinese Buddhist cuisine, the Longevity Peach is a popular symbol of immortality and is often made into sweet buns. However, to adapt to Chinese Buddhist cuisine, we are replacing the peach-shaped buns with Steamed Lotus Seed Buns. The lotus seed paste filling represents purity and enlightenment, aligning with the principles of Buddhist cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Longevity Peach, so you can check it out.

• 300g (10.5 oz) all-purpose flour 300g (10.5 oz) all-purpose flour
• 5g (0.2 oz) instant yeast 5g (0.2 oz) instant yeast
• 30g (1 oz) sugar 30g (1 oz) sugar
• 150ml (5 fl oz) warm water 150ml (5 fl oz) warm water
• 200g (7 oz) lotus seed paste 200g (7 oz) lotus seed paste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Lotus leaves for steaming (optional) Lotus leaves for steaming (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 15g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and sugar. Gradually add warm water while kneading until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
3. 3.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
4. 4.
   Flatten each dough ball with your palm and place a spoonful of lotus seed paste in the center. Gather the edges and pinch to seal, forming a bun.
5. 5.
   Place the buns on individual squares of parchment paper and let them rest for another 15 minutes.
6. 6.
   Meanwhile, prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil.
7. 7.
   Brush the buns with vegetable oil and place them in the steamer, leaving space between each bun. If desired, line the steamer with lotus leaves for added aroma.
8. 8.
   Steam the buns over high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the buns have expanded.
9. 9.
   Remove the buns from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lotus seed paste — If you can't find ready-made lotus seed paste, you can make your own by boiling lotus seeds until soft, then blending them with sugar and a little water until smooth.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a fluffy texture, make sure the dough is well-kneaded and properly rested.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a little more sugar to the lotus seed paste.
• Steaming the buns on lotus leaves adds a subtle fragrance to the buns.

Serving advice

Serve the Steamed Lotus Seed Buns warm as a delightful dessert or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of fragrant Chinese tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Steamed Lotus Seed Buns on a beautiful platter, showcasing their golden color and pleated tops. Garnish with a fresh lotus leaf for an elegant touch.