Steamed pork buns, also known as Baozi, are a delicious Chinese snack that is satisfying and comforting to eat The soft, fluffy bread encases a flavorful pork filling that literally melts in your mouth. While traditionally steamed in a bamboo steamer, steaming pork buns in an Instant Pot is easy, convenient and yields perfect results every time In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through my tried and true method for how to make pillowy steamed buns using the Instant Pot.
Benefits of Using the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is my preferred way to steam pork buns for several reasons
-
Convenience – No need to monitor a stove top steamer Just set it and forget it!
-
Consistent results – The Instant Pot steams buns evenly with no hot or cold spots.
-
Speed – Steaming in the Instant Pot is faster than other methods.
-
Versatility – The Instant Pot can both cook the buns and proof the dough.
-
Flavor – The closed environment concentrates aromas for better flavor.
-
Less mess – Steaming contained in the Instant Pot is neater than stove top.
Instructions for Steaming Pork Buns
Steaming pork buns in the Instant Pot involves just a few easy steps:
1. Make the Dough
The dough for steamed buns is fairly straightforward. You’ll need:
- All-purpose flour
- Instant yeast
- Warm water
- Sugar
- Salt
- Baking powder
- Vegetable oil
In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast, oil and water.
Mix and knead for 5-10 minutes until a smooth elastic dough forms. Cover and let rise for an hour.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, make the pork filling. You’ll need:
- Ground pork
- Green onions
- Ginger
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Sesame oil
- White pepper
Mix all filling ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Set aside.
3. Form the Buns
Once dough has risen, punch it down and divide into equal pieces. Roll out each piece to a round flat circle.
Spoon a heaping tablespoon of filling into the center of each circle.
Lift the edges of the wrapper over the filling and pinch together to enclose, pleating as you go.
4. Proof the Buns
Place formed buns in a steamer basket or on a trivet, cover with a towel and allow to rest and rise for 30 minutes.
5. Steam in the Instant Pot
Add 1 cup water to Instant Pot steel insert. Place steamer basket or trivet with buns inside pot.
Lock lid in place, select Steam function and set time for 4 minutes at high pressure.
When time is up, quick or natural release pressure.
6. Enjoy!
Carefully remove steamer basket. Open lid, letting steam escape away from you.
Gently lift out the basket and transfer buns to a platter.
Serve warm or at room temperature alongside soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
The buns will be soft, puffy and fragrant – the perfect steamed buns!
Tips for Steaming Success
Follow these tips for the best Instant Pot steamed pork buns every time:
-
Use an enriched dough with oil, sugar and baking powder to ensure a soft, cloud-like texture.
-
Knead the dough very well to develop the gluten. This helps the buns hold their shape.
-
Allow dough adequate time to proof and rise before forming buns. This lightens the texture.
-
Don’t overfill the buns. Too much filling will prevent proper rising.
-
Ensure the Instant Pot is fully pressurized before starting the timer.
-
Allow pressure to release naturally after cooking for the softest buns.
-
Use a bamboo steamer basket if possible for the best outcomes.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about steaming buns in the Instant Pot:
How long do you steam buns in Instant Pot?
4 minutes at high pressure is perfect don’t overcook.
Can you proof dough in Instant Pot?
Yes! Turn on yogurt function for a nice warm environment.
What size Instant Pot is best for steaming buns?
6-quart or larger to accommodate steamer basket.
How many buns can you steam at once?
Steam in batches for best results. For 6-quart, 8-10 buns per batch.
Do you need a trivet or can buns sit directly on insert?
Always use a trivet or steamer basket to elevate buns.
Should you let pressure release naturally or quick release?
Letting pressure release naturally gives the softest, fluffiest buns.
Can you freeze steamed buns?
Yes, freeze cooked buns in an airtight container up to 3 months. Reheat in steamer or microwave to serve.
More Instant Pot Steamed Bun Recipes
Once you master the basic pork buns, try your hand at some other flavorful fillings:
-
Char Siu Buns – Fill with Chinese BBQ pork.
-
Chicken & Mushroom Buns – Diced chicken and mushrooms in gravy.
-
Curry Beef Buns – Savory, curried ground beef filling.
-
Vegetable Buns – Filled with sautéed cabbage, onions and carrots.
-
Custard Buns – Sweet egg custard filling.
The possibilities are endless! The Instant Pot makes steaming homemade buns fast and easy. I hope you’ll give this classic Chinese snack a try. Your family will surely devour these tender, juicy pork buns. Enjoy!