Bao Bun Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Step-by-Step Guide

Soft, pillowy bao buns have taken the culinary world by storm, and it’s no surprise why. These delicate steamed buns are the perfect vessel for a variety of fillings, offering a delightful combination of texture and flavor in every bite.

If you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your repertoire, this vegetarian bao bun recipe is exactly what you need. From the fluffy dough to the vibrant filling, every component is crafted to satisfy both your taste buds and your craving for comfort food.

Whether you’re new to making bao buns or have tried them before, this recipe breaks down the process into simple steps so you can enjoy homemade bao buns anytime. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies and sauces.

Ready to impress your family and friends with an authentic, delicious vegetarian treat? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this vegetarian bao bun recipe. First, the dough is incredibly soft, fluffy, and light, thanks to the perfect balance of yeast and kneading.

These buns are steamed to perfection, resulting in a tender texture that melts in your mouth.

Secondly, the vegetarian filling is packed with fresh flavors and a balance of savory and sweet notes, using ingredients such as shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and crunchy vegetables. This recipe is also highly adaptable — you can swap ingredients to suit what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Finally, making bao buns at home is not only rewarding but also healthier than many store-bought or restaurant versions. You control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome, preservative-free snack or meal.

Once you try this recipe, you might find yourself making bao buns regularly!

Ingredients

• For the Bao Dough:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• For the Vegetarian Filling:
• 1 cup firm tofu, crumbled
• ½ cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• ½ cup napa cabbage, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Optional: fresh cilantro and sliced cucumber for garnish

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Rolling pin
• Steamer basket or bamboo steamer
• Large pot or wok (for steaming)
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually pour the yeast mixture and vegetable oil into the flour while stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
5. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and shiitake mushrooms, sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
6. Add the crumbled tofu, carrot, and napa cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
7. Season the filling with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the sliced green onions. Set aside to cool slightly.
8. Shape the Bao Buns: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into an oval about 4 inches long.
9. Brush the center of each oval with a little vegetable oil. Fold the dough over to create a semi-circle shape (like a taco) and place each onto a small square of parchment paper to prevent sticking during steaming.
10. Steam the Buns: Prepare your steamer by bringing water to a boil in a wok or large pot. Place the buns with parchment squares into the steamer basket, making sure to leave space between each bun.
11. Cover and steam over medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes, until the buns are puffed and cooked through.
12. Assemble and Serve: Carefully remove the buns from the steamer. Open each bun and fill with a generous spoonful of the vegetarian filling. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced cucumber if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For extra fluffiness, let the dough rest for a few minutes after rolling each bun before steaming. Avoid opening the steamer during cooking to prevent buns from collapsing.”

If you want to add more texture and flavor, consider adding finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots to the filling. For a spicy kick, drizzle some sriracha or chili oil inside the buns before serving.

For a vegan twist, just ensure your hoisin sauce is vegan-friendly (many are, but some contain shrimp paste). You can also substitute shiitake mushrooms with other varieties like oyster or cremini mushrooms based on availability.

Want to get creative with fillings? Try a shredded jackfruit barbecue filling or a mix of roasted sweet potatoes and black beans for a southwestern flair.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian bao buns are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or main course. Serve them alongside a crisp Asian slaw or pickled vegetables for added crunch and tang.

Pair your bao buns with a bowl of hot miso soup or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the meal. For a fun family dinner, set up a bao bun station where everyone can customize their own buns with sauces, herbs, and veggies.

If you love experimenting with breads, you might also enjoy other recipes like the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe.

Conclusion

Making homemade vegetarian bao buns is a rewarding culinary adventure that delivers delicious results every time. The soft, fluffy buns paired with a rich, savory filling showcase the best of plant-based cooking in a fun and approachable way.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a satisfying snack, these bao buns are sure to impress.

With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can enjoy the authentic taste of Asian street food right in your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with fillings and flavors to make this recipe your own.

For more baking inspiration, check out our delightful Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or try your hand at the sweet and tempting Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Happy steaming and savor every bite!

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