Vegetarian Steamed Chicken Bao Buns

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Vegetarian Steamed Chicken Bao Buns, a plant-based twist on a beloved classic that’s perfect for elevating your meatless meals. These fluffy, pillowy buns are crafted from scratch using a simple yeast-based dough and are generously filled with a savory mix of shredded plant-based chicken substitute, aromatic garlic, ginger, and scallions, all coated in a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil. Steamed to perfection for a light, soft texture, these bao buns are not only vegan-friendly but also bursting with bold umami flavors that will make you forget they’re entirely meat-free. Perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or main dish, these buns are sure to steal the spotlight at your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:90 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 3 cups All-purpose flour
• 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 3 quarters Unsweetened plant-based milk (such as soy or almond)
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1.5 cups Plant-based chicken substitute (shredded or chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Ginger (grated)
• 2 tablespoons Scallions (finely chopped)
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Pepper
• 1 cup Water
• 8 sheets Parchment paper (cut into small squares for steaming)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and baking powder.

Step 2

Warm the plant-based milk to lukewarm (about 100–110°F) and add it to the dry ingredients along with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.

Step 3

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4

While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 5

Add the plant-based chicken substitute to the skillet and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes. Then, add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, scallions, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 6

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten into a small disk about 4 inches in diameter.

Step 7

Place a spoonful of the filling into the center of each disk. Carefully gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together at the top to enclose the filling, forming a bun.

Step 8

Place each bun seam-side down on a square of parchment paper. Let the buns rest and rise for 15–20 minutes.

Step 9

Set up a steamer and bring the water to a boil. Arrange the buns in the steamer, leaving some space between them to expand.

Step 10

Steam the buns over medium heat for 12–15 minutes. Once done, remove them from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Step 11

Serve the vegetarian steamed chicken bao buns warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1352.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2376.9

Total Fat 63.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 23.0g
Cholesterol 0.5mg	0%
Sodium 4666.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 338.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.5g	0%
Total Sugars 35.0g
Protein 120.3g	0%

Vitamin D 100.0IU	0%
Calcium 476.4mg	0%
Iron 26.6mg	0%
Potassium 1571.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 23.8%

Protein: 20.0%

Carbs: 56.2%