Vegetarian Buns Recipe: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious Ideas

There’s something magical about freshly baked buns—warm, fluffy, tender, and filled with a delicious savory filling. Vegetarian buns are a staple across many cultures, from Chinese baozi to European stuffed rolls, and they never fail to delight both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing a picnic, or searching for the perfect snack, homemade vegetarian buns are a satisfying treat you can tailor to your tastes. The best part?

Making them at home is easier than you might think, and the possibilities for fillings are nearly endless!

In this recipe post, I’ll walk you through a classic vegetarian steamed bun with a hearty, flavor-packed vegetable filling. These buns are pillowy on the outside, packed with colorful vegetables inside, and can be made ahead and frozen for busy days.

Read on for step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and plenty of serving inspiration to elevate your next meatless meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Fluffy Texture: The combination of all-purpose and bread flour creates a soft, tender dough that puffs up beautifully when steamed.
• Customizable Filling: Use your favorite vegetables, add tofu, or even sneak in some legumes for extra protein. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and seasonal produce!
• Freezer-Friendly: These buns can be made ahead and frozen—just reheat for an instant homemade snack or side.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults love them, and you can adjust the seasonings to suit your household’s preferences.
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with veggies, these buns offer fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein—all wrapped up in a comforting, hand-held package.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and small for dough and filling)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap (for covering dough)
• Rolling pin
• Knife and cutting board
• Steamer basket or bamboo steamer (with lid)
• Parchment paper squares (to line steamer and prevent sticking)
• Skillet or frying pan (for sautéing filling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
   • Stir in the vegetable oil, then add the all-purpose flour, bread flour, and salt. Mix with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the vegetable filling:
   • While the dough is rising, heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
   • Stir in the carrot, red bell pepper, cabbage, and mushrooms. Cook, stirring often, for about 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and any liquid evaporates.
   • Season with soy sauce, sriracha (if using), black pepper, and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the green onions. Let the filling cool to room temperature.
3. Shape the buns:
   • Punch down the risen dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 60g each).
   • Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a disk about 4 inches wide.
   • Place 2 tablespoons of the cooled filling in the center of each disk. Gather the edges and pinch to seal, forming a bun. Pinch tightly to prevent leaking during steaming.
   • Place each bun seam-side down on a square of parchment paper.
4. Second rise:
   • Arrange buns in your steamer, leaving space for expansion, or on a tray if steaming in batches. Cover with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes.
5. Steam the buns:
   • Prepare your steamer by bringing water to a boil over medium-high heat.
   • Place the buns (on their parchment squares) in the steamer basket. Cover tightly.
   • Steam for 15–18 minutes, until the buns are puffed and slightly glossy. Avoid opening the lid while steaming for best results.
6. Cool and serve:
   • Turn off the heat and let the buns rest for 2 minutes with the lid ajar to prevent wrinkling.
   • Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions or a side of dipping sauce if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Filling ideas: Try adding small cubes of tofu, cooked lentils, or chickpeas for a protein boost. Other vegetables like spinach, corn, or peas work beautifully.
• Make-ahead: Freeze shaped, uncooked buns on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Steam from frozen, adding an extra 3–4 minutes to the cooking time.
• Flavors from around the world: For an Indian twist, spice your filling with garam masala and cumin; for a Mediterranean take, try feta, spinach, and olives.
• Baking option: Brush buns with oil or egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes for a golden crust, instead of steaming.

• “If the dough feels sticky while kneading, add a tablespoon of flour at a time. If it’s dry, drizzle in a bit more water until smooth.”

• Short on time? Use store-bought pizza dough for a quick version, though homemade is best for soft, fluffy results.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition is an estimate and will vary based on filling choices and size of buns.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve buns warm as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup for a light lunch.
• Pair with a tangy soy dipping sauce, chili oil, or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.
• Make it a brunch spread by adding Vegetarian Date Cake for dessert and some Vegan Bread Machine loaves on the side.
• For a party, serve alongside finger foods like Vegetable Crackers and crunchy crudités with dip.
• In a lunchbox, pack with fresh fruit and a little container of dipping sauce.
• These buns are excellent for picnics, potlucks, or as a unique side for an Asian-inspired dinner.

Conclusion

Homemade vegetarian buns are a celebration of the best that plant-based cooking has to offer: wholesome ingredients, customizable flavors, and the unbeatable comfort of fresh bread. With just a little effort, you can create a batch of buns that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your table with happy faces.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the steamer or reheated from the freezer, they’re a versatile addition to any menu.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and seasonings to make these buns truly your own. From weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, vegetarian buns are sure to become a go-to favorite.

For more inspiration, explore our collection of Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes or discover how to make Vegan Bechamel Sauce for creamy pasta dishes. Happy cooking!

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