Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

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Pan-fried buns, known as Sheng Jian Bao in Chinese cuisine, are an absolute delight for anyone who loves Asian-inspired dishes. These buns, filled with a savory mix of vegetables and pan-fried to golden perfection, are a testament to the irresistible flavors of street food. With their crisp exterior and chewy, fluffy interior, they’re a treat for all senses. Inspired by the bustling food stalls and night markets of Taipei, this recipe is perfect for replicating those authentic flavors right at home. The best part? These buns can be made in large batches, frozen, and reheated, ensuring a ready supply of deliciousness whenever you crave it.

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The Appeal of Sheng Jian Bao

Sheng Jian Bao offers a wonderful textural contrast. The dough is soft and chewy, while the pan-frying adds a crunchy golden crust that makes each bite irresistible. The filling, made from cabbage, vermicelli noodles, carrots, and aromatic chives, is seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, creating a harmonious blend of umami-rich and subtly sweet flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, these buns are satisfying and versatile. Their make-ahead and freeze-friendly nature makes them even more appealing for busy home cooks.

Ingredients Breakdown

Dough:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (375g)
  • 2 tsp instant dry yeast
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1 cup warm soy milk (or other non-dairy milk)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil (or neutral oil)

Filling:

• 1 tbsp neutral oil for cooking
• 6 cups shredded cabbage (from ½ large head of cabbage)
• 3.5 oz vermicelli noodles (100g)
• 1 cup shredded carrot (150g)
• ½ cup chopped scallions or chives (25g)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and sesame seeds. Make a well in the center.
2. Pour in the warm soy milk and sesame oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a clean bowl, and cover with a damp towel. Let it rest for 2 hours to rise.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Soak the vermicelli noodles in boiling water for 7-8 minutes until soft. Drain and chop into ½-inch pieces.
2. Heat a pan over medium-high heat with 1 tbsp oil. Sauté the cabbage, carrots, and chives for 4-5 minutes until tender.
3. Add the noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Drain any excess liquid from the mixture and let it cool completely.

Shaping the Wrappers:

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12-16 equal pieces, depending on your preferred bun size.
2. Roll each piece into a ball.
3. Flatten each ball with your palm, then roll it out into a thin circle about 3-4 inches in diameter. Use flour to prevent sticking.
4. Place the rolled wrappers on a tray, spaced apart or stacked with a dusting of flour between layers. Cover with a dry towel to prevent drying out.

Assembling the Buns:

1. Take a wrapper and place 2-3 tbsp of filling in the center.
2. Gather the edges of the wrapper, pleating as you go, and twist the top to seal.
3. Lightly press down the bun’s top to flatten slightly. Cover the buns with a towel while assembling the rest.

Cooking the Buns:

1. Heat a pan with a lid over medium heat and add 1 tbsp oil per batch of 4 buns.
2. Place the buns, seam-side down, in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
3. Flip the buns and cook the other side until browned.
4. Carefully add 1 tbsp water per bun into the pan and immediately cover to trap the steam. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the water evaporates.
5. Remove the buns and repeat with the remaining batches.

Tips for Success

• Perfect Wrappers: If your dough is sticky, sprinkle a little flour to make it manageable. Don’t worry about perfect circles; the dough stretches easily while wrapping.
• Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to add garlic, ginger, or your favorite spices to the filling for an extra flavor punch.
• Vegan Noodles: Ensure the vermicelli noodles you choose are vegan-friendly, as some may contain eggs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these buns hot with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, a pinch of sugar, and chili sauce. You can garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions for a more polished presentation. Pair them with a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Freezing

• Refrigeration: Store cooked buns in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat by pan-frying with a splash of water, steaming, or using an oven toaster.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked buns on a tray, ensuring they don’t stick together. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen using your preferred method.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegan pan-fried buns are the ultimate combination of texture, flavor, and convenience. The chewy dough and crunchy crust contrast beautifully with the tender, flavorful filling. They’re versatile enough to be served as a snack, appetizer, or light meal and are perfect for meal prep. The process of making them, from kneading the dough to folding the buns, is not only rewarding but also a great opportunity to connect with the rich culinary traditions of Asian street food.

Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite food market or discovering Sheng Jian Bao for the first time, these vegan buns are a must-try. Give them a go and enjoy the taste of authentic, homemade Asian cuisine.

In conclusion, Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao) are a delightful blend of crispy, golden-brown exteriors and soft, chewy interiors, filled with a savory medley of cabbage, vermicelli noodles, and aromatic seasonings. These buns bring the vibrant flavors of Chinese street food to your kitchen, offering a comforting and satisfying snack or appetizer for any occasion.

With their versatile filling and customizable dough, these buns cater to various dietary preferences while delivering authentic taste and texture. Perfect for meal prepping, freezing, or sharing, they are an approachable yet impressive dish for both novice and seasoned cooks. Serve them fresh with your favorite dipping sauce, and savor the joy of creating restaurant-quality vegan buns at home. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or planning a flavorful feast, these pan-fried buns are sure to delight and inspire.