Tempeh Bao Buns

Tempeh Bao Buns: A Vegan Delight

If you’re looking to elevate your vegan culinary repertoire, these Tempeh Bao Buns are a must-try. Soft, fluffy bao buns filled with flavorful tempeh and fresh veggies make for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a casual dinner or an impressive party appetizer, these buns are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the Bao Buns:

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons warm water (110°F)
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• ¼ cup avocado oil (plus more for brushing)

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces tempeh, sliced into 12 strips and steamed
• 6 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 3 tablespoons sriracha
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• Lime wedges, for squeezing and serving
• Avocado slices
• Cucumber slices
• Carrot slices
• Fresh cilantro
• Fresh mint
• Diced Thai chiles

Directions

1. Make the Bao Buns:

• In a small bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Set aside for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
• In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt.
• Add the avocado oil and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes.

2. Prepare the Tempeh Filling:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Marinate the steamed tempeh strips in a mixture of hoisin sauce, sriracha, grated fresh ginger, and lime zest for 20 minutes.
• Arrange the marinated tempeh on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until caramelized and slightly crispy.

3. Shape and Steam the Buns:

• Roll the risen dough out to a ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
• Use a round cutter to cut circles from the dough.
• Lightly brush the tops of each circle with avocado oil, then fold them in half.
• Let the buns rest for a few minutes.
• Steam the buns over simmering water for 9-11 minutes until they are puffed and cooked through.

4. Assemble the Bao Buns:

• Add a squeeze of lime juice to the avocado and sliced vegetables for extra flavor.
• Carefully open each steamed bun and fill with a strip of baked tempeh, avocado slices, cucumber, carrot, fresh cilantro, mint, and diced Thai chiles.
• Serve immediately with extra sauce and lime wedges on the side.

Prep Time: 35 minutes

Cooking Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

These Tempeh Bao Buns are a wonderful fusion of savory, spicy, and fresh flavors. The homemade bao buns are soft and pillowy, providing the perfect vessel for the tangy and spicy tempeh filling. Garnished with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs, each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Enjoy these bao buns as a delicious vegan meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

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