Steaming Frozen Pork Buns: Using Your Rice Cooker

Steaming frozen pork buns in a rice cooker is a convenient and efficient way to prepare soft, fluffy buns with minimal effort. It is a simple process that can be done by beginners and experienced chefs alike. The rice cooker can be used to steam frozen or fresh buns, and even other foods like dumplings, meat, and vegetables. The key steps to steaming frozen pork buns in a rice cooker include preparing the rice cooker by adding water, lining the steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves, arranging the frozen buns with some space between them, and then steaming for around 15-20 minutes.

Preparing the rice cooker

First, prepare your rice cooker by pouring water into its inner pot. The amount of water required will vary depending on the manufacturer's instructions and the type of rice cooker you have. As a general rule, ensure the water level is about one inch or a few centimetres above the bottom of the cooker. This will generate the steam needed to cook the buns without causing them to become soggy.

Next, you will need to choose an appropriate steaming vessel. Opt for a heatproof bowl or plate that fits comfortably inside your rice cooker, allowing for steam to circulate. It is important to elevate this steaming platform using a stand or ring to ensure even cooking. You can create a simple stand by shaping a few small balls of foil and placing them in the water, then setting the plate or bowl on top.

If your rice cooker has a steamer basket, place it inside the rice cooker according to the manufacturer's instructions. Some rice cookers have multiple layers, so be sure to stack them correctly. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can create a makeshift steaming platform using the foil balls mentioned earlier and a heatproof bowl or plate.

Preparing the pork buns

Once your buns are ready, carefully place them into the steamer basket, making sure to leave some space around each bun so that the steam can circulate. Depending on the size of your rice cooker, you may need to steam the buns in batches.

If you're using a rice cooker with multiple layers, stack them according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can create a makeshift one by using a heatproof bowl or plate that fits inside your rice cooker. You'll need to elevate this off the bottom of the rice cooker using a few balls of foil.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for steaming frozen pork buns in a rice cooker can vary depending on the type and size of the buns, as well as the specific model of the rice cooker. Here is a detailed guide to help you achieve perfectly steamed pork buns:

• Thawing: It is recommended to partially thaw frozen pork buns before steaming. This can be done by leaving them at room temperature for a while or by using the defrost setting on your microwave. Thawing ensures a smoother and more even cooking process.
• Water Level: When using a rice cooker, fill it with an appropriate amount of water, ensuring that the water level is below the steamer basket or tray. This prevents the buns from coming into direct contact with the water and becoming soggy.
• Steaming Time: The cooking time can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the type and size of the buns. For larger or denser buns, consider a longer steaming time. As a general guideline, aim for around 15-20 minutes for thoroughly cooked buns.
• Checking Doneness: To determine if your pork buns are ready, insert a toothpick or fork into the center of one of the buns. If it comes out clean without any dough sticking to it, your buns are cooked through. Alternatively, gently press on a bun; it should feel soft and springy when fully cooked.
• Texture and Moisture: If you prefer a softer texture, opt for a longer steaming time. Conversely, for a firmer bun, reduce the steaming time. After cooking, cover the steamed buns with a clean kitchen towel to retain moisture and keep them soft.
• Temperature Control: Maintain consistent and even cooking by monitoring the steam levels throughout the process. Depending on the size and thickness of your pork buns, you may need to adjust the steaming time accordingly.
• Batch Cooking: If you are steaming a large batch of buns, consider cooking them in multiple batches to ensure even cooking. This will help maintain consistent cooking temperatures and steam circulation.
• Advanced Technique: For extra soft and moist pork buns, try the double steaming technique. Steam the buns initially, then remove them, let them rest, and steam them again for a few additional minutes.

By following these guidelines and adjusting the cooking time and temperature based on your specific rice cooker and the type of pork buns you are using, you can achieve perfectly steamed and delicious frozen pork buns.

Checking for doneness

For Beginners:

Getting Started:

• Expanded Size: Check if the buns have visibly expanded in size after steaming. This indicates that the dough has cooked through and the buns are ready. Ensure that all buns have expanded uniformly to guarantee even cooking.
• Smooth and Puffy: Gently press on the buns to feel for a smooth and puffy consistency. This texture signifies that the buns are cooked to perfection.
• Light and Fluffy: When you touch the bun, it should feel light and fluffy to indicate that it's ready to be enjoyed.
• Well-Heated Interior: Hold one of the buns in your hand to sense if it's warm throughout. This confirms that the buns are fully cooked.

For Intermediate Cooks:

Fine-Tuning the Process:

• Insertion: Confirm the buns' doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork into the center of a bun. If it comes out clean, without any dough sticking to it, the buns are fully cooked.
• Golden Brown: A slight golden brown color on the surface of the buns is a visual indicator of proper cooking.
• Avoiding Pale Spots: Check for any pale or undercooked spots on the buns. If you notice any, steam the buns for a little longer.
• Steam Release: Once the buns are cooked, observe the steam release from the steamer. Reduced steam or a lack of condensation on the lid indicates that the buns are ready.

Experimenting with fillings

Now that you know how to steam frozen pork buns in a rice cooker, it's time to experiment with different fillings. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Pork is a classic filling for steamed buns, and for good reason. Try a Korean-inspired gochujang pork belly, which is spicy, sweet, and juicy. Alternatively, you could make sticky ginger and chilli pork belly bao buns or Char Siu (Chinese barbecue pork).
• If you're looking for something different, try honey buffalo chicken, which is lower in fat and calories than traditional pork fillings.
• For a vegetarian option, go for crispy ginger and soy chicken or a simple scrambled egg and chives filling.
• Get creative with Western-inspired fillings like pizza sauce and cheese or Eastern-inspired fillings like teriyaki salmon or sweet and sour shrimp.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different sauces and glazes. Chilli sauce, hoisin sauce, and katsu sauce all work well in steamed buns.
• Leftovers can also be used as fillings. Try leftover roast beef or crispy roast lamb, shredded or finely chopped and mixed with a sauce of your choice.
• If you're feeling adventurous, try making a dessert bun with sweet fillings like custard, red bean paste, or even Nutella!

Frequently asked questions