Fluffy Vegetable Rice Steamed Buns: A Delightful Plant-Based Treat
If you’re in the mood for a unique, plant-based treat, these Vegetable Rice Steamed Buns are just the thing! Fluffy, tender buns filled with a savoury mix of cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and tempeh or tofu, these buns are inspired by traditional steamed buns but with a veggie-forward twist.
Perfect as a snack, appetiser, or a light meal, they pair wonderfully with hoisin sauce, vegan mayo, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds and coriander. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- ⅔ cup lukewarm water
- 2¼ tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1½ cups Lifestyle Food Gluten Free Cake Flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 cup Lifestyle Food Gluten Free Rice Flour
- Salt, to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup brown mushrooms, diced
- ⅓ cup tempeh or tofu, torn into pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
To Serve:
- Hoisin sauce
- Vegan mayonnaise
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped coriander
Method:
- Prepare the Dough:
-
-
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, rice flour, sugar (if using), and salt.
- In a separate bowl, sprinkle the yeast over lukewarm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Knead the dough with your hands on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Cover and let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
-
- Make the Filling:
-
-
- While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the tempeh or tofu and cook until golden. Add in the chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and diced mushrooms.
- Stir in the soy sauce and honey, cooking until the vegetables are softened and the flavours are well combined. Let the filling cool before using it to stuff the buns.
-
- Assemble the Buns:
-
-
- Once the dough has risen, tear off a piece and roll it into a ball. Place it on a floured surface and flatten it into a small disk.
- Add a spoonful of the vegetable filling to the centre of the dough, then fold in the edges and pinch to seal, forming a filled bun.
- Place each bun in a steamer lined with baking paper, seam-side down.
-
- Steam the Buns:
-
-
- Steam the buns over medium heat until they’re light, fluffy, and fully cooked, about 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, you can shallow fry them for a crispy exterior.
-
- Serve:
-
- Serve the buns warm, topped with sesame seeds, a drizzle of hoisin sauce vegan mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander.
These Vegetable Rice Steamed Buns are a tasty way to enjoy a light, plant-based meal or snack with an Asian-inspired twist. With a fluffy, chewy texture and a savoury filling, they’re perfect to dip into hoisin sauce or vegan mayo for extra flavour. Try this recipe for your next gathering or as a fun cooking project – you’re sure to enjoy every bite!
