Steaming Pre-Cooked Buns: How Long Should You Wait?

Steamed buns are a versatile dish that can be made with or without meat filling. The type of steamer you use is important, as it can affect the texture of the buns. For instance, bamboo steamers are great for absorbing condensation, preventing the buns from becoming soggy. When using a bamboo steamer, it's crucial to ensure that the bottom rim is always submerged in water to avoid charring. The cooking time for steamed buns varies depending on the recipe and cooking method, but it typically ranges from 8 to 25 minutes. It's important to follow the recipe's instructions and avoid opening the steamer prematurely to prevent the buns from collapsing.

Steaming Pre-Cooked Buns

Steaming pre-cooked buns: how long?

Steaming pre-cooked buns is a great way to ensure they are soft and fluffy. The process is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.

Firstly, you will need a steamer. A bamboo steamer is ideal for buns, dumplings, and any steamed pastry as it absorbs condensation, preventing the food from becoming soggy. A standard 10" bamboo steamer is a good size for the average home cook. If you are using a metal steamer, cover the lid with a kitchen towel to prevent condensation from dripping onto the buns.

Add water to a wok or a large pot or pan. A 14" wok is ideal for a 10" bamboo steamer. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then place the covered bamboo steamer with the buns inside over the water. Ensure the bottom rim of the steamer is submerged in the water, and the floor of the steamer does not touch the water. Depending on the length of your steam time, you may need to add more water to the wok or pan.

When steaming buns, always bring the water to a rapid boil first, then carefully lower the steamer into the wok or pan. Follow the recipe's steam time, and resist the urge to open the steamer and check on the buns, as this may cause them to collapse. For fluffy yeasted buns, let the buns sit covered in the steamer for an extra 5 minutes after turning off the heat. This resting time is crucial to prevent the buns from deflating when exposed to cool air.

The amount of time needed to steam pre-cooked buns can vary depending on the type of bun and the method used. For example, frozen buns steamed over boiling water in a lightly oiled steamer will take approximately 15 minutes for a 4-pack of 100g buns and 25 minutes for a single 150g bun. Using a microwave on high to cook frozen buns will take approximately 1 minute for a 100g bun and 2 minutes for a 150g bun.

Additionally, the type of filling can impact the steaming time. For instance, pork steamed buns will take 12 to 15 minutes to cook, while a frozen pork bun package may recommend steaming for 8 to 10 minutes.

What type of steamer to use?

There are several types of steamers that you can use to steam pre-cooked buns. Here are some options:

Bamboo Steamer

A bamboo steamer is a traditional and classic choice for steaming buns. It is affordable and effective as bamboo absorbs condensation, preventing the buns from becoming soggy due to dripping water. The standard size for a bamboo steamer is 10 inches, which fits nicely into a 14-inch wok or a large pot. When using a bamboo steamer, ensure that the bottom rim is submerged in water to prevent charring, and keep the floor of the steamer above the water level to avoid drenching the buns. You may need to replenish the water during the steaming process. Additionally, you can stack multiple bamboo steamers on top of each other to steam multiple buns simultaneously.

Metal or Stainless Steel Steamer

A metal or stainless-steel steamer can also be used to steam buns. If using this type of steamer, cover the lid with a kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or a clean, dry kitchen towel to absorb condensation and prevent water droplets from dripping onto the buns. The advantage of a stainless-steel steamer is that it is dishwasher-safe.

Electric Steamer

An electric steamer is a convenient option that can be used to steam buns. It provides a constant source of steam, which is useful for dishes that require longer steaming times.

Microwave

If you don't have access to a steamer, you can also use a microwave to steam buns. Wrap the bun in a damp paper towel and place it on a microwavable plate. Cover the bun with a lightly wet bowl and microwave for one minute at a time on a medium setting until it is cooked. Be careful not to overcook the bun, as it can dry out and become hard.

Oven

Another option is to use your oven as a steamer. Place the buns in a deep circular foil baking dish and cover it with a layer of perforated aluminium foil. Place the dish in a boiling pan with a lid and cook over medium-high heat for around 20 minutes to create a steaming effect.

How to line a steamer

Steamer basket liners prevent food from sticking to the steamer and create a barrier between the food and the steamer for easy removal. They also hold onto juices and keep soft doughs intact.

Perforated Parchment Paper

A single round piece of perforated parchment paper that fits snugly into the steamer is the quickest way to line the basket. The holes allow the steam to circulate, and the paper prevents the food from sticking to the steamer. As steamer sizes vary depending on the brand, another option is to place each bun on individual squares of parchment paper.

To make your own perforated parchment paper, start by getting a piece of parchment paper and folding it in half, then fold it twice more until you have a fairly thin triangle. Hold the paper over the cooking vessel with the pointy end lined up in the middle. Next, cut off the end to make it round and fit the steamer. Cut out little triangles along the edge about 2.5 cm/1" apart—these will be the holes. Repeat this process along the folded edge and then cut off the pointy end. Finally, unfold the paper and place it in your steamer.

Pre-Cut Circles

Some Asian stores sell pre-cut circles of paper with holes cut out that can be used to line steamers.

Reusable Cotton Liners

If you sew or know someone who does, you can make reusable cotton liners from unbleached sheer woven cotton. Simply overlockstitch the edge to prevent it from unravelling. Make a few and wash and iron them after each use.

Paper Cupcake Liners

For small, individual items, or in the absence of parchment paper, paper cupcake liners can be used. Place one under each item of food, or flatten them out and shingle them over the inside of the steamer liner.

Leaves

Cabbage leaves, kale, banana leaves, corn husks, and cauliflower leaves all make excellent bamboo steamer liners. They are thin, durable, and relatively flavourless, so they won't affect the taste of your food.

Silicone Liners

For those who use their steamer regularly, silicone liners are a more permanent option. They are easy to clean and can be washed with other dishware.

Cheesecloth

Cheesecloth can also be used to line a steamer and can usually be washed by hand.

How to prepare the buns for steaming

Preparing buns for steaming is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure they turn out perfectly. Here is a guide on how to prepare buns for steaming:

Firstly, gather your equipment. You will need a steamer – a bamboo steamer is ideal for buns as it absorbs condensation, preventing them from becoming soggy. A 10" bamboo steamer is a standard size, which can be placed over a 14" wok or a large pot or pan. If you are using a metal steamer, you will also need a kitchen towel to prevent condensation from dripping onto the buns. You will also need something to line the steamer with – parchment paper, lettuce leaves, or waxed paper squares are all good options.

Once you have your equipment, it's time to prepare the buns. Bring water in the wok or large pot to a rolling boil. In the meantime, place your buns on the parchment paper/lettuce leaves/waxed paper squares, leaving at least 1" of space between them as they will expand during steaming. Carefully lower the steamer into the wok or pot, making sure the bottom rim of the steamer is submerged in the water. Adjust the heat according to your recipe.

Follow the steaming time indicated in your recipe, and resist the temptation to lift the lid and check on the buns, as this can cause them to collapse. After turning off the heat, allow the buns to rest in the steamer for an extra 5 minutes. This will ensure they stay nice and fluffy.

Finally, carefully remove the lid, taking care not to let condensation drip onto the buns, and enjoy your freshly steamed buns!

How to maintain a steamer

To maintain a steamer, you'll need to clean it regularly and ensure it dries properly before storing it away. Here is a detailed guide on how to maintain a steamer:

For bamboo steamers:

Before using a brand new bamboo steamer, wash it with soap and then soak it in hot water for about 5 minutes. After each use, wash the steamer with mild soap and warm water, then air-dry. If there are any chunks of food stuck to the steamer, scrub them off with a nylon brush. Do not put the steamer in a dishwasher. If you live in a dry area, occasionally brush the inside and outside of the steamer with vegetable oil to prevent it from cracking. Ensure the steamer is completely dry before storing it, as mould may form if it is damp. Well-maintained bamboo steamers can last a couple of years.

For commercial steamers:

Scale and lime deposits are common causes of steamer failure, so it's important to stick to a cleaning schedule. Start by applying a degreasing spray, then run the steamer on steam mode to loosen any stuck-on particles. Open the doors during cooling and scrub the interior with soft brushes. Daily tasks include ensuring drain lines remain clear and inspecting gaskets. Replace the water filter and cartridges quarterly or biannually, depending on the system and water quality. During descaling, inspect the steam line tubing, connection points, and water lines for cracks or frays. Also, inspect the electrical components for wear and tear.

Frequently asked questions