Steaming Soft Buns: No Steamer, No Problem!

Steamed buns are a delicious staple at dinner tables across Asia and the world. They are irresistible due to their soft, airy texture, elasticity, and freshness. While steamed buns are traditionally cooked using a bamboo steamer, there are alternative methods to cook them without one. For instance, you can use a stovetop pan, an oven, or even a microwave. If you want to get creative, you can try making a DIY steamer by using a pie tin, a strainer, a cooling rack, a plate with foil, or a splatter screen.

Stovetop pan method

If you have a deep stovetop pan with a tight-fitting lid, you can easily improvise a steamer. Here's how to do it:

Firstly, fill the pan with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Then, place a heatproof plate or a shallow dish on top of the pan. Make sure to leave some space between them for steam circulation. Next, arrange the buns on the plate and cover the pan with the lid, trapping the steam inside. Finally, steam the buns for the recommended time, which is usually around 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and puffed up.

You can also try using a splatter screen. Place it on top of your pot of boiling water and lay your buns on top. Then, cover them with a large bowl. This method is great for sticky rice. If you don't have a splatter screen, you can use tinfoil instead. Just make sure it fits tightly around the pot so that it doesn't collapse under the weight of the buns.

Oven method

If you have an oven, you can easily steam buns using this method.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Arrange the buns on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

Boil some water and pour it into a roasting pan or a heatproof dish.

Place the roasting pan or dish on the bottom rack of the oven.

Put the baking sheet with the buns on the middle rack.

Close the oven door and let the buns steam for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked.

It is important to check the buns for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the centre. If it comes out clean, your buns are ready to be enjoyed!

You can also spritz your buns with a fine mist of water, wrap them in aluminium foil, and set them inside an oven preheated to 350°F for approximately 10 minutes.

Deep-fry method

Deep-frying is a great alternative to steaming buns, especially if you're looking for a different texture and flavour profile. This method is ideal for buns with a smooth surface, like bao buns, but may not be suitable for softer, porous buns like hamburger buns, as they tend to absorb the oil. Here's a step-by-step guide to deep-frying your buns:

Preparation:

• Choose an appropriate oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, peanut, or sesame oil. Sesame oil is an excellent choice if you want to add a nutty flavour to your buns.
• Ensure your buns are completely thawed before frying.
• Remove any ice crystals or moisture from the buns to prevent the oil from popping.

Cooking Process:

• Heat your chosen oil in a wok or a deep pan. The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the buns without crowding.
• Heat the oil to a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit (176.6 degrees Celsius). Use a frying thermometer for accuracy.
• Gently lower the buns into the hot oil. Take care to avoid splashing.
• Deep-fry the buns for approximately 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
• Turn the buns frequently during cooking to ensure even colouring.
• Remove the buns from the oil once they have reached the desired colour and texture.
• Place the fried buns on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease.
• Serve immediately for a crisp and chewy treat.

Tips:

• Be cautious when deep-frying, as the oil can be extremely hot.
• Avoid overfilling the pan with oil to prevent spillage.
• Ensure there is enough space in the pan for the buns to be fully submerged without crowding.
• For added flavour and texture, consider using sesame oil, which imparts a nutty taste.

Microwave method

Steaming buns in the microwave is a popular method due to its speed and simplicity. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook steamed buns using the microwave method without a steamer:

Firstly, you will need the following:

• Microwave-safe plate
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Paper towel

Step 1: Dampen a paper towel with water and wring out the excess. You want the paper towel to be damp, not soaking wet.

Step 2: Wrap your bun in the damp paper towel. Ensure the bun is completely covered.

Step 3: Place the wrapped bun on a microwave-safe plate.

Step 4: Put a small amount of water inside the microwave-safe bowl and place it in the microwave. The amount of water should be enough to cover the bottom of the bowl.

Step 5: Place the plate with the wrapped bun on top of the bowl. This setup helps to create a steaming effect, with the water in the bowl acting as the steam source.

Step 6: Set your microwave to medium heat and steam the bun for one minute. It is crucial to use medium heat and cook in short intervals to prevent overcooking and drying out the bun.

Step 7: After one minute, check if the bun is cooked to your desired level. If not, continue microwaving in 30-second or one-minute intervals until done.

This microwave method is a convenient and effective way to cook steamed buns without a steamer, ensuring your buns are cooked properly without sacrificing taste and texture.

Using a strainer or colander

If you don't have a steamer, you can use a strainer or colander to cook your steamed buns. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, gather your equipment. You will need a metal strainer or colander, a boiling pan (large enough for the strainer or colander to fit inside), and a lid for the pan. You will also need some cooking paper, cabbage, or lettuce leaves, and of course, your buns!

Now, fill the pan with a few inches of water. Place the strainer or colander inside the pan, ensuring that the water level does not touch the lowest point of the strainer or colander. This is important to prevent the water from coming into direct contact with your buns.

Next, place your buns on sheets of cooking paper, cabbage, or lettuce leaves. This step is crucial as it prevents the buns from sticking to the mesh of the strainer or colander. Once your buns are prepared, carefully place them inside the strainer or colander.

Cover the pan with its lid, creating an airtight seal. If needed, use layers of tea towels to ensure no steam escapes. Turn the heat on high and let the buns cook for around ten minutes. The high heat will generate enough steam for the cooking process.

Finally, carefully remove the lid and take out your steamed buns. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions