Huajuan

花卷

Ingredients

For the Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
  • 200g ground pork (or chicken, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:
  1. Mix warm water with sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Combine all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, kneading until smooth.
  3. Let the dough rise for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Prepare the Filling:
  1. Mix ground pork (or chosen protein), finely chopped scallions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and ground white pepper.
Assemble the Huajuan:
  1. Divide the risen dough into 10 to 12 portions.
  2. Flatten each piece into a circle, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and pleat the edges to seal.
Steam the Huajuan:
  1. Arrange buns in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
  2. Steam for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy:
  1. Let the Huajuan cool slightly before serving.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.