Quickly Microwave Frozen Steamed Buns: A Step-By-Step Guide

Steamed buns are a delicious staple across Asia and the world, and cooking them from frozen is easy. If you're using a microwave, the first step is to place your frozen buns in a microwave-safe container. You'll want to cover them with a damp paper towel, and then heat on high for around one minute. It's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so keep an eye on them! Once they're heated thoroughly, let them stand for a minute or two before serving.

Wet the bun first to prevent cracking

To cook frozen steamed buns in the microwave, it is important to first wet the bun to prevent cracking. This is because the dough can dry out and crack when heated, so adding moisture will keep it soft and pliable.

Firstly, take a paper towel and dampen it with water. You can also use a damp tea towel or a wet piece of kitchen paper. Next, wrap your frozen bun in the damp paper towel and place it on a microwave-safe plate. It is important to ensure that all surfaces of the bun are wet. This will help to prevent the dough from cracking and ensure even cooking.

Then, take a microwave-safe bowl or mug and fill it with a small amount of water, around one inch or one centimetre. Place the bowl upside down over the wrapped bun on the plate. The water in the bowl will create steam, replicating the effect of a steamer.

Finally, microwave the bun for short intervals on a medium setting. For one bun, heat for around 50 seconds to one minute. For two buns, increase the time to one minute and 20 seconds to one and a half minutes. Microwaving for too long or on a high setting will dry out the bun, so it is important to be mindful of the timing.

By wetting the bun and creating a steam effect with the bowl of water, you can help prevent the bun from cracking and achieve a soft, fluffy texture.

Use a damp paper towel to retain moisture

How to Cook Frozen Steamed Buns in the Microwave Using a Damp Paper Towel

Step 1: Prepare the Buns

Before placing the frozen steamed buns in the microwave, use water to wet all surfaces of each bun. This step is important as it ensures that the dough doesn't crack when heated.

Step 2: Arrange the Buns on a Plate

Place the wet frozen buns on a microwave-safe plate. If you are cooking more than one bun, ensure they do not touch each other.

Step 3: Cover with a Damp Paper Towel

To retain moisture and create a steam environment, cover the buns with a damp paper towel. The paper towel should be damp but not soaking wet, so be sure to wring out any excess water before placing it over the buns.

Step 4: Microwave

The cooking time will depend on the number of buns and the wattage of your microwave. As a general guide, for one bun, heat for 20-30 seconds, and for two buns, heat for 50 seconds to one minute and 20 seconds.

Step 5: Allow to Stand

After removing the plate from the microwave, let the buns stand for one to two minutes before serving. This allows the buns to cool slightly and ensures they are cooked through.

Tips and Precautions:

• Always use a microwave-safe plate when cooking frozen steamed buns.
• Avoid using recycled or dyed paper towels, and follow USDA recommendations for safe use.
• Plain white paper towels are generally safer for microwaves, but caution is still needed to avoid overheating or scorching.
• If using multiple layers of paper towels, avoid extensive overlapping to prevent the risk of scorching or burning.
• Ensure the paper towel is laid flat in the microwave, either under or on top of the food. Do not fold, scrunch, or crumple the paper towel.
• Monitor the microwave closely while cooking to prevent overcooking or overheating.
• Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on the buns during the first attempt to find the right timing for your microwave.

Microwave for 1 minute on high

To cook frozen steamed buns in the microwave, you will need to make some preparations. Firstly, take a paper towel and dampen it with water, then wring out the excess. This paper towel will be used to wrap your frozen bun before placing it on a microwavable plate.

Next, take a bowl and lightly wet its inside by running it under the tap. Place this bowl over the wrapped bun on the plate. Now, you are ready to microwave.

Microwaving for too long or at too high a setting can cause the bun to dry out and become hard, so it is important to be cautious. Once the microwave is complete, carefully remove the plate and allow the bun to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your freshly cooked steamed buns!

Let the bun stand for 1-2 minutes

Allowing your steamed buns to stand for 1-2 minutes after microwaving is an essential step for two reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the buns are cool enough to handle and eat safely. Secondly, it helps to maintain the soft and fluffy texture that steamed buns are known for.

During the standing time, the residual heat in the buns will continue to cook them slightly, so they will remain warm and toasted. This is especially important if you are cooking multiple batches of steamed buns in the microwave. By allowing them to stand for a minute or two, you give the buns time to reach the perfect temperature and texture.

The standing time also provides an opportunity for the flavours of the filling to blend with the soft bun. This enhances the taste and ensures that each bite is delicious and flavourful.

Additionally, the standing time gives you a chance to prepare any accompanying dishes or sauces. Whether you're enjoying your steamed buns as a snack or a side, having that extra minute to plate your food can elevate the overall dining experience.

So, while it might be tempting to dig into your steamed buns as soon as they come out of the microwave, remember that a little patience goes a long way in achieving the perfect texture, temperature, and taste.

Cooking times may vary

If you are cooking one bun in the microwave, you should heat it for approximately one minute. However, this time may vary depending on your microwave, so it is important to keep an eye on it. Check the bun after one minute, and if it is not yet soft and heated all the way through, continue to heat it in 20-30-second intervals until it is ready.

If you are cooking two buns in the microwave, you should heat them for approximately one minute and 20 seconds. Again, this time may vary depending on your microwave, so it is important to keep an eye on the buns. Check them after one minute and 20 seconds, and if they are not yet soft and heated all the way through, continue to heat in 20-30-second intervals until they are ready.

When microwaving your frozen steamed buns, it is important to wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them on a microwave-safe plate. This will help to ensure that the dough does not crack and that the buns are heated evenly.

It is also important to note that if you are cooking more than two buns, you may need to increase the cooking time accordingly. However, be careful not to overcook the buns, as this can cause them to dry out and become hard.

Frequently asked questions