Steamed Vegan Hoisin Tofu Buns

Creating a delightful vegan meal can often feel daunting, especially when you’re trying to impress friends or family. One day, I found myself wanting to create something unique yet comforting—a dish that would bring everyone around the table. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of making steamed buns filled with hoisin tofu.

These Steamed Vegan Hoisin Tofu Buns not only spark curiosity but also deliver a burst of flavor that will make any meal feel special. The combination of savory tamari, sweet hoisin, and a hint of spice from Sambal Oelek makes the filling irresistible. As the dough steams, it develops a fluffy texture that’s perfectly suited for holding all that deliciousness inside.

Experimenting with recipes is a joy, but nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing loved ones enjoy food created from scratch. These buns do just that—they create a sense of community and excitement, all while being completely plant-based. Join me on this culinary adventure as we explore how to make these amazing steamed vegan hoisin tofu buns from scratch.

Steamed Vegan Hoisin Tofu Buns

Fundamentals

Making steamed buns starts with understanding a few key elements: the filling, the dough, and the steaming process. Each plays a crucial part in delivering a perfectly flavored bun.

The filling utilizes firm tofu, which provides a solid base. When mixed with tamari and hoisin, it transforms into a party of flavors that dance on the tongue. The addition of spices like ginger and garlic enhances this savory filling, making every bite delicious.

Next, the dough creates a comforting wrap for the filling. An active dry yeast component helps the dough rise, leading to that fluffy, airy texture that everyone loves in a bun. Flour, water, and a bit of sweetener come together, making a dough easy to work with and delightful to eat.

Preparation/setup

First, gather all the ingredients needed for both the filling and the dough. This preparation will streamline the process and keep the cooking environment organized.

For the filling, chop the tofu into small cubes, then mix it with tamari, vegan hoisin, brown sugar, and spices in a bowl. Marinating the ingredients allows the flavors to develop further.

For the dough, activate the yeast by combining it with warm water and agave nectar. Let it rest for a few minutes until it becomes frothy. Then, combine the activated yeast with flour, salt, and a tablespoon of vegan butter. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.

Once both components are ready, allow the dough to rise in a warm environment. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your buns.

Ingredients

The ingredient list for these buns blends well together, balancing flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Tofu Filling:

  • 16 oz firm tofu, drained, pressed, and cut into ⅛" cubes
  • ⅓ cup tamari (soy sauce)
  • 1 ½ tbsp vegan hoisin
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1-2 tsp Sambal Oelek (adjust according to taste)
  • 1 ½ tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp garlic, minced
  • ⅔ tbsp ginger, minced
  • ⅔ cup water
  • 2 ½ tbsp sweetened black vinegar (or substitute with white rice vinegar)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

• Dough:

  • 1 ½ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp agave nectar
  • ¼ cup warm water (divided)
  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
  • 1 cup dairy-free milk (unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp salted vegan butter
  • ¼ tsp table salt
  • 3-3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp canola oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
  • 2 large green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1-2 tbsp white & black sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

With your ingredients prepared, it’s time to assemble the buns.

1. Make the filling: Start by sautéing the minced garlic and ginger in sesame oil until fragrant. Add the tofu cubes, tamari, hoisin, and brown sugar. Mix well and cook until the tofu absorbs the flavors, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the water, black vinegar, and black pepper, then cook for another few minutes until everything is combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before adding chopped cilantro and green onions.

2. Prepare the dough: In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and agave nectar. Allow this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes until it bubbles. In another bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, dairy-free milk, and flaxseed. Knead until the dough is smooth, adding flour as necessary. Coat the dough with oil and let it rise in a warm area, covered with a damp cloth, for about an hour.

3. Shape the buns: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle, fill with the tofu mixture, and pinch to seal securely. Place each bun on a small piece of parchment to prevent sticking while steaming.

4. Steam the buns: In a steamer, arrange the buns, making sure they have space to expand. Cover and steam over simmering water for about 15-20 minutes. They should be fluffy and cooked through when done.

5. Serve: Plate the buns and, if desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch. Enjoy warm!

Tips for Making the Best Steamed Vegan Hoisin Tofu Buns

Technique

Mastering the technique of steaming buns can transform your cooking game. Make sure your steamer setup is efficient. Fill the steamer with water and bring it to a gentle simmer before adding the buns.

To prevent the buns from sticking, make sure to use parchment paper beneath them. This simple step pays off, ensuring that you can easily remove them after steaming.

Timing is essential. Do not rush the steaming process. Each bun requires enough time to cook completely, contributing to the fluffy texture everyone loves.

Tips/tricks

Experiment with fillings! While hoisin tofu works wonderfully, feel free to get creative. Adding vegetables, nuts, or other spices can completely change the flavor profile. Popular choices include mushrooms, carrots, or a mix of your favorite greens.

Adjust the spiciness of your filling by varying the amount of Sambal Oelek. If you want it sweeter, consider adding more brown sugar or hoisin sauce.

Lastly, allow the buns to cool slightly before taking a bite. The filling gets hot, so patience pays off with a better eating experience!

Perfecting Your Steamed Vegan Hoisin Tofu Buns

Perfecting results

To ensure your buns come out perfectly every time, monitor the rising phase of your dough closely. Proper fermentation leads to lighter, airier buns. If your kitchen is cool, find a warmer spot or preheat your oven slightly to facilitate rising without cooking the dough.

While steaming, check your water level frequently to avoid drying out the buns. A covered pot will retain steam more effectively. If unsure, keep some extra boiling water nearby to add if needed.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your buns turn out dense, it may be due to insufficient rising time or over-kneading the dough. Be gentle while handling the dough, and allow enough time for it to rise adequately.

If you find the filling too runny, adjust the quantity of water or soy sauce added during the cooking process. A little cornstarch can also help thicken the filling if it becomes too watery.

Moreover, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Serving and Presentation

Serving/presentation

When it comes time to serve your steamed buns, presentation is key. Arrange them aesthetically on a large platter, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This not only makes the dish appealing but also invites guests to dig in.

Pair with dipping sauces like a tangy soy sauce or additional hoisin for a flavorful addition.

Pairings/storage

These buns work well as a standalone dish or alongside a vibrant salad or vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal. Store leftover buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Re-steaming them gently before serving helps maintain their fluffy texture.

You can also freeze the buns before steaming. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to avoid freezer burn. When ready to cook, steam from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Creating Steamed Vegan Hoisin Tofu Buns brings joy and a rich culinary experience to the table. The combination of flavors, textures, and creativity makes every bite a celebration. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or part of a meal, these buns always impress. They showcase how plant-based ingredients can harmonize beautifully, inviting everyone to savor wholesome food together.

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