North African Spiced Steamed Buns

Ingredients

In this North African adaptation of mantou, we incorporate traditional North African spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika to infuse the buns with a distinct flavor profile. The original Chinese mantou is typically plain and served as a staple food, while these North African spiced buns add a unique twist to the traditional recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Mantou, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cumin, coriander, and paprika.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. 3.
   Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Shape each portion into a round bun.
7. 7.
   Place the buns on a steamer lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
8. 8.
   Steam the buns over high heat for 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and fluffy.
9. 9.
   Serve the North African spiced steamed buns warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Olive oil — Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor.
• Ground cumin, coriander, and paprika — Toast the spices in a dry pan before using to enhance their aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Serve the buns with North African dips like harissa or za'atar-infused olive oil.
• Experiment with different shapes for the buns, such as knots or twists, to add visual appeal.
• These buns can be frozen and reheated later. Just steam them for a few minutes until heated through.

Serving advice

Serve the North African spiced steamed buns as a side dish with North African stews or tagines. They also make a delicious snack on their own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed buns on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint, to add a pop of color and freshness.