Complimentary Longevity Bun Recipe
Make Complimentary Longevity Bun Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Mantou (Steamed Bun) Dough
Longevity Filling (Lightly Sweet Red Bean & Sesame)
Finishing & Steaming
Method
Mantou (Steamed Bun) Dough
- 1
Activate yeast & combine liquids
Warm the water to about 105–110°F (40–43°C). In a small bowl, stir the warm water with the sugar and instant dry yeast. Let sit 5–7 minutes until foamy. In a separate measuring cup, combine warm water mixture, warm milk and vegetable oil.
- 2
Mix dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt so the salt is evenly distributed.
- 3
Form dough
Make a well in the flour, pour in the liquid mixture, and use a spatula or wooden spoon to bring the dough together until shaggy. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic and slightly tacky. If dough is too sticky, add up to 2 tbsp more flour; if too dry, add 1 tsp warm water at a time.
- 4
- 5
Divide & rest
Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces (about 60–70 g each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball, cover with a damp towel, and let rest for 10 minutes.
Longevity Filling (Lightly Sweet Red Bean & Sesame)
- 6
Prepare filling
If using canned anko, transfer to a bowl and mash lightly to loosen. If using cooked adzuki beans, mash them coarsely with a fork or potato masher until mostly broken but with some texture. Stir in the ground toasted sesame seeds, brown sugar, softened butter and 1/8 tsp salt until evenly combined. Taste and adjust sweetness — the filling should be mildly sweet to complement the soft bun.
- 7
Portion filling
Divide the filling into 8 even portions (about 2 tbsp / ~18–20 g per bun). Roll each portion into a small ball to make stuffing easier.
Assembling & Steaming
- 8
Fill buns
Take one rested dough ball and flatten it with your palm or a rolling pin into a 3–4 inch disc, thicker in the center. Place one ball of filling in the center. Gather edges of the dough up and pinch to seal tightly, turning the bun seam-side down and rolling gently to form a smooth ball. Repeat with remaining pieces.
- 9
- 10
Steam buns
Arrange buns in the steamer basket leaving about 1–2 inches between them (they will expand). Brush the top of each bun very lightly with 1 tsp vegetable oil diluted with a few drops of water if desired to give a subtle sheen. Steam over gently simmering water, covered, for 10–12 minutes. After steaming, turn off the heat and let buns sit covered for 2–3 minutes to prevent deflation.
- 11
Serve
Carefully remove buns from the steamer and transfer to a serving plate. These 'Complimentary Longevity Buns' are best served warm. They make an auspicious small gift or starter — light, soft buns with a mildly sweet red bean-sesame center symbolizing longevity.
