Steamed Longevity Peach Buns

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1/2 cup (150g) red bean paste 1/2 cup (150g) red bean paste
• Natural food coloring (orange and pink) Natural food coloring (orange and pink)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.5g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 34g, 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

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 and remaining sugar. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture while stirring.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Add a few drops of orange food coloring to one portion and pink food coloring to another. Knead each portion until the color is evenly distributed.
5. 5.
   Take a small piece of dough from each color and flatten them into circles. Place a teaspoon of red bean paste in the center of one circle and cover it with the other circle. Pinch the edges together to seal and shape it into a peach.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
7. 7.
   Place the shaped buns on individual parchment paper squares and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
8. 8.
   Prepare a steamer and steam the buns over high heat for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
9. 9.
   Remove from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Red bean paste — Ensure that the red bean paste is smooth and free from lumps before using it as a filling for the buns.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a vibrant peach color, use natural food coloring made from fruits or vegetables.
• Make sure the dough rises in a warm place to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• Steam the buns over high heat to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
• Serve the buns warm for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a little bit of sugar to the red bean paste.

Serving advice

Serve the Steamed Longevity Peach Buns as a delightful dessert or snack. They are best enjoyed warm and can be served on their own or with a cup of Chinese tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Steamed Longevity Peach Buns on a serving platter, garnish with a small mint leaf to resemble the peach stem, and sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.