Jul 14 2026

Bankou Recipe

Inspired by Motherland Kitchen
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Make Bankou Recipe in just 1h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the activated yeast mixture to the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 4

    Let Dough Rise

    Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Filling Preparation

  1. 5

    Cook Filling

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.

  2. 6

    Add Meat and Vegetables

    Add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook until browned. Stir in the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

  3. 7

    Season the Filling

    Add soy sauce and black pepper to the mixture. Stir well and remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly.

Assembly and Cooking

  1. 8

    Shape the Bankou

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

  2. 9

    Fill the Dough

    Flatten each ball of dough and place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center. Fold the dough over the filling and seal it well.

  3. 10

    Cook the Bankou

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Place the filled Bankou in a steamer basket and steam for about 15-20 minutes, until the dough is cooked through.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Remove the Bankou from the steamer and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.

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