Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) are a delightful treat that combines crispy exteriors with a soft, chewy inside. These buns are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a delicious snack. With their flavorful filling of cabbage, vermicelli noodles, and other veggies wrapped in homemade dough, they bring the essence of Taipei’s night markets right to your kitchen. Enjoy them fresh or freeze them for later—either way, you’re in for a tasty experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious buns even if you’re a beginner.
• Flavor-Packed Filling: The combination of cabbage, carrots, and vermicelli noodles creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these buns as an appetizer, side dish, or snack; they fit well into any meal plan.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze them for quick snacks or meals on busy days.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the filling for a personalized touch.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To create these Vegan Pan-Fried Buns smoothly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Frying pan with a lid
• Strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rolling pin: It helps achieve uniform thickness in your wrappers for consistent cooking.
• Frying pan with a lid: Using a lid while cooking allows for steaming the buns, ensuring a perfect texture.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 g)
• 2 tsp instant dry yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
• 1 cup warm soy milk (or other non-dairy milk)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil (or neutral oil)
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking)
• 6 cups raw shredded cabbage (from 1/2 large head of cabbage)
• 3.5 oz uncooked bundles of vermicelli noodles (100g total)
• 1 cup finely shredded or grated carrot (150g)
• 1/2 cup chopped scallions or chives (25g)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil

How to Make Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients.
2. Create a well in the center; pour in warm soy milk and oil while mixing until dough forms.
3. Shape dough into a ball and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rest for at least 2 hours to rise.

Step 2: Cooking the Filling

1. Soak vermicelli noodles in boiling water for 7–8 minutes until cooked; drain and chop into small pieces.
2. Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add chives, carrots, and cabbage; cook for 4–5 minutes until tender.
3. Add chopped noodles along with soy sauce, salt, and additional oil; mix well.
4. Cook for another 2–3 minutes; adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Transfer mixture to a strainer to remove excess liquid; set aside to cool.

Step 3: Preparing the Wrappers

1. Remove dough from bowl and stretch it into a ring by punching a hole in the center.
2. Slice the dough into 12 or 16 pieces based on desired size.
3. Roll each piece into balls; flatten with your palm on the surface lightly coated with flour.
4. Use a floured rolling pin to roll out each ball into wrappers about 3–5 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Making the Buns

1. Place about 2–3 tbsp of filling in the center of each wrapper.
2. Crease the edges while pinching down with your other hand to seal.
3. Press down lightly on top before placing back on tray covered with towel.

Step 5: Cooking the Buns

1. Heat frying pan with lid over medium heat; add oil based on number of buns.
2. Place buns creased-side first in the pan; press down slightly and cook until golden brown (4–5 minutes).
3. Flip buns carefully and cook until both sides are golden brown.
4. Pour water into the pan carefully using the lid as protection; cover immediately and steam until water evaporates (about 5–6 minutes).

Step 6: Storing & Freezing

• Store cooked buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat as needed using pan-frying or microwaving methods.
• To freeze cooked buns, lay them out on a tray without touching each other until hard before transferring to bags.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Vegan Pan-Fried Buns! These delightful bites are sure to impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

Serving Vegan Pan-Fried Buns can elevate your dining experience. These buns are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can enhance their flavors and textures.

With Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce Mixture – Combine soy sauce, a sprinkle of sugar, and chili sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Sesame Dipping Sauce – Mix tahini or sesame oil with soy sauce for a rich nutty flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Small Plates – Serve the buns on small plates as finger foods at parties or gatherings.
• Garnished with Herbs – Add fresh cilantro or sliced scallions on top for a pop of color and freshness.

In a Lunch Box

• Packable Snack – Include these buns in lunch boxes for a tasty treat at school or work.
• Accompanied by Pickles – Pair with pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the buns.

With Soup

• Light Broth Soup – Serve alongside a light broth soup like miso or vegetable broth for a comforting meal.
• Spicy Noodle Soup – Pair with spicy noodle soup to create a hearty dish that complements the buns.

How to Perfect Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

Perfecting your Vegan Pan-Fried Buns takes practice and attention to detail. Follow these tips to make sure they turn out delicious every time.

• Dough Preparation – Ensure your dough rises properly by resting it in a warm place. This will lead to fluffy buns.
• Filling Balance – Adjust your filling ingredients according to taste. Adding more veggies can enhance texture and flavor.
• Bold Wrapping Technique – Practice the pinching technique when sealing your buns for better shape and filling security.
• Bold Cooking Temperature – Maintain medium heat while cooking. Too high can burn the buns before they cook through.
• Bold Steaming Method – Use enough water during steaming but be careful not to drown the buns. This helps keep them moist without making them soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

Pairing side dishes with Vegan Pan-Fried Buns can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickles add crunch and acidity that enhance the delicate flavors of the buns.
2. Miso Soup – A light miso soup provides warmth and umami, making it an excellent pairing with the rich buns.
3. Stir-Fried Greens – Quick stir-fried bok choy or spinach offers freshness and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Rice Vermicelli Salad – A refreshing salad made with rice vermicelli, herbs, and lime dressing can lighten up your meal.
5. Steamed Edamame – Lightly salted edamame is an easy snack that complements the savory nature of the buns.
6. Crispy Tofu Strips – Fried or baked tofu strips provide additional protein and texture alongside the soft buns.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) can be a fun adventure, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your buns turn out perfectly every time.

• Ignoring Dough Consistency: If your dough is too dry or too wet, it will affect the texture of your buns. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and adjust as needed by adding small amounts of flour or water.
• Overfilling the Buns: Packing too much filling into the bun can cause them to burst while cooking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling for each bun to ensure they seal properly.
• Not Allowing Dough to Rise: Skipping the resting time for the dough can lead to dense buns. Always let your dough rise for at least 2 hours for optimal fluffiness.
• Cooking at High Heat: Cooking the buns on high heat may burn the bottoms before they cook through. Keep the heat at medium and allow enough time for even cooking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold milk or vegetables can hinder the rising process of the dough and affect texture. Always use warm ingredients when making your dough.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked buns in an air-tight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

• Place cooled buns on a tray without touching each other.
• Freeze for 5-6 hours until hard, then transfer to bags or containers.

Reheating Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

• Oven: Preheat your oven and place buns on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat buns in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water for about 1 minute or until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan with a splash of water covered with a lid for about 3-4 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包).

How do I make the dough rise faster?

To speed up the rising process, place the dough in a warm area or preheat your oven slightly and turn it off before placing your dough inside.

Can I use different fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, tofu, or mushrooms to customize your filling according to your taste.

How should I store leftover buns?

Store leftover buns in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 5 days.

Can I make Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking, but texture may vary.

What dipping sauces pair well with these buns?

Common dipping sauces include soy sauce mixed with chili paste or vinegar. You can also try adding sesame oil for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) are not just delicious but also versatile! You can enjoy them as an appetizer or snack and customize fillings based on what you have at home. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how satisfying these bites are!