Ingredients

For the Buns:

• Pumpkin – 300g (peeled and seeds removed)
• Peanuts – 200g (unsalted, coarsely chopped)
• All-purpose flour – 400g
• Yeast powder – 4g (instant dry yeast)
• Food oil – 20g (vegetable oil or sunflower oil)
• Chili salt – 2g (or substitute with 2g of white sugar if making sweet buns)
• Water – for steaming the pumpkin and washing

For Garnish:

• Cooked sesame seeds – as needed

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings and Nutrition Information

• Servings: 8 buns
• Calories per serving: ~250 kcal
• Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 120mg

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Steamed buns have been enjoyed for centuries, with origins tracing back to East Asian cuisines. What makes this recipe timeless is its ability to adapt to local ingredients and tastes. By incorporating pumpkin, the recipe not only enhances the buns’ flavor and color but also makes them more nutrient-rich. Peanuts bring in a satisfying crunch, while sesame seeds add a nutty aroma and decorative touch.

This versatility is what keeps steamed buns relevant across generations. From celebrations to casual meals, their soft, comforting texture and customizable fillings make them a universal favorite. The combination of pumpkin and peanuts in this recipe offers a modern take on a traditional classic, bridging the past and present in a way that delights the senses.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin

1. Peel and Steam:
   • Peel the pumpkin, remove seeds, and cut it into small cubes.
   • Place the cubes in a steamer basket and steam over boiling water for 10–12 minutes, or until soft.
2. Mash the Pumpkin:
   • Mash the steamed pumpkin into a smooth puree using a fork or blender.
   • Let the puree cool to room temperature before proceeding.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine the yeast powder with 2 tablespoons of lukewarm water. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, pumpkin puree, yeast mixture, chili salt (or sugar if making sweet buns), and food oil.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, elastic dough. This may take about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer.
   • If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but avoid over-flouring to maintain a soft texture.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and place it in a warm area. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanuts

1. Toast the Peanuts:
   • Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the peanuts until they are golden and fragrant. Let them cool slightly.
2. Chop the Peanuts:
   • Coarsely chop the toasted peanuts for a crunchy texture. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Buns

1. Divide the Dough:
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
2. Incorporate the Peanuts:
   • Flatten each portion of dough and sprinkle the center with a small handful of chopped peanuts.
   • Fold the dough around the peanuts, pinching the edges to seal. Shape into a smooth ball.
3. Add Sesame Garnish:
   • Lightly brush the surface of each bun with water and roll the tops in cooked sesame seeds for garnish.

Step 5: Steam the Buns

1. Prepare the Steamer:
   • Line the steamer basket with parchment paper or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Steam the Buns:
   • Arrange the buns in the steamer, leaving space between them to expand.
   • Steam over boiling water for 12–15 minutes.
3. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the buns rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

FAQs

1. Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the buns and refrigerate them before steaming. Alternatively, you can steam them and reheat later for a quick snack.

2. Can I use canned pumpkin?
While fresh pumpkin provides the best flavor and texture, canned pumpkin puree can be used as a substitute. Ensure it’s unsweetened and adjust the water content accordingly.

3. What if I don’t have sesame seeds?
Sesame seeds can be omitted or replaced with other seeds like chia, poppy, or sunflower seeds.

Tips for Perfect Steamed Buns

1. Use Warm Water: Warm water activates the yeast and helps the dough rise effectively. Avoid using hot water, as it can kill the yeast.
2. Don’t Overload the Steamer: Leave enough space between buns to allow them to expand during steaming.
3. Maintain Consistent Heat: Keep the water at a steady boil to ensure even cooking.
4. Customize Fillings: Experiment with other fillings like roasted seeds, dried fruits, or chocolate for sweet buns.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store steamed buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the steamer or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked buns on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Steam directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Pumpkin and Peanut Steamed Buns with Sesame Garnish are more than just a dish—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. The soft, golden buns are a visual delight, while the combination of pumpkin’s natural sweetness and peanut’s nuttiness creates a harmonious balance of flavors.

Whether you’re savoring them as a cozy breakfast, a festive treat, or a comforting snack, these buns offer a timeless appeal. They’re versatile, nutritious, and customizable, making them a cherished recipe that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation.

By following this recipe, you’re not just creating a meal—you’re crafting an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the timeless satisfaction of homemade steamed buns. They’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen for years to come!