Vegan Char Siu Bao (Baked BBQ Tofu Buns)

Name: Vegan Char Siu Bao (Baked BBQ Tofu Buns)
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 180 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 1 lb extra-firm tofu; 1 medium onion; 3 1/8 cup all-purpose flour or bread flour; 1/2 tsp vital wheat gluten; 1 tsp active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water; 1 1/4 cup water or vegetable stock; 1/4 cup coconut oil; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 tbsp neutral oil; 2 1/2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/2 tsp dark soy sauce; 5/8 tsp salt; 1 pinch white pepper

These vegan char siu bao are filled with savory-sweet barbecue tofu and wrapped in a soft, fluffy homemade dough. Baked until lightly golden, they make a satisfying dim sum-style snack, lunch, or party appetizer.

Servings10 Portions

Prep Time120 Mins

Cook Time60 Mins

Difficulty

Intermediate

Ingredients

extra-firm tofu
1 lb
medium onion
1
all-purpose flour or bread flour
0.4 cup
vital wheat gluten
0.5 tsp
active dry yeast
1 tsp
warm water
1 cup
water or vegetable stock
0.3 cup
coconut oil
0.3 cup
sugar
0.5 cup
neutral oil
2 tbsp
soy sauce
1 tbsp
hoisin sauce
1 tbsp
sesame oil
1 tsp
dark soy sauce
0.5 tsp
salt
0.6 tsp
white pepper
1 pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the starter for the dough. In a large bowl, stir together 1/2 cup warm water, the yeast, and a little of the flour until smooth. Set it in a warm spot for 15 minutes, or until the mixture looks foamy and active.

Add the coconut oil to the yeast mixture and stir until fully melted and combined, then mix in the remaining 1/2 cup warm water. Add the rest of the flour, vital wheat gluten, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until fairly smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until puffy.

While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Heat the oil in a wok, cast-iron skillet, or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and tofu, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the tofu is lightly browned on one side. Turn gently and cook until the other side is lightly browned as well.

Season the filling with soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, salt, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, and white pepper. Pour in the water or vegetable stock, then sprinkle in the flour. Stir gently so the tofu keeps some texture.