Korean Chicken Bao Buns – Spicy, Sticky & Seriously Soft!
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Experience the perfect fusion of flavors with these Korean Chicken Bao Buns! These irresistibly soft steamed buns are filled with spicy, sticky chicken that's bursting with umami goodness. Perfect for serving at parties or for a cozy night in, these bao buns will take your taste buds on a delicious adventure. Easy to make and utterly satisfying, they’re a must-try in your culinary repertoire.
Korean Chicken Bao Buns are a delicious take on traditional bao, combining a soft, fluffy bun with flavorful spicy chicken. These buns are not only mouthwatering but also versatile, making them a hit at gatherings.
The Joy of Bao Buns
Bao buns are a traditional Chinese dish that has gained immense popularity across the globe. Their soft, fluffy texture is nothing short of delightful, making them the perfect vessel for a variety of fillings. While they are often associated with Asian cuisine, bao buns can be adapted to incorporate various flavors, giving you endless possibilities in the kitchen.
With the combination of chewy dough and savory fillings, bao buns offer a unique eating experience. These buns are versatile; you can serve them as appetizers at a gathering, as a main dish for dinner, or even as a fun snack. The pleasure derived from tasting these hearty buns makes them a crowd favorite, ensuring that they won't last long on your table!
Exploring Korean Flavors
This recipe brings a delicious Korean twist to bao buns with the addition of gochujang, a popular Korean chili paste. Known for its rich umami taste, gochujang adds a kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of honey and the savory notes of soy sauce. The interplay of these flavors translates into a filling that is not just spicy but deeply satisfying, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Incorporating ingredients like garlic and ginger enhances the aromatic profile of the chicken, creating a wonderful balance that elevates the entire dish. The soft dough of the bao bun provides a lovely contrast to the spicy and sticky filling, making every bite a culinary delight.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Korean Chicken Bao Buns are not just a treat for the taste buds; they're also visually appealing. Their fluffy, cloud-like appearance is bound to impress your guests, making them perfect for parties and gatherings. But don’t worry, they’re just as enjoyable for a quiet night at home—an excellent way to add a touch of excitement to your weekday meals.
Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a more formal dinner event, these bao buns allow for easy serving and sharing. Set up a bao bun station with various toppings and sauces to let your guests customize their buns. This interactive dining experience not only delights your guests but also encourages conversation and engagement around the table.
Ingredients
For the Bao Buns
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 pound chicken thighs, diced
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Adjust spices according to taste.
Instructions
Make the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a bowl, mix diced chicken with gochujang, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
Steam the Bao Buns
Divide the dough into small balls, flatten them, and place a spoonful of chicken in the center. Pinch to seal. Place in a steamer and steam for 15 minutes.
Serve warm with sliced green onions on top.
Tips for Perfect Bao Buns
To ensure that your bao buns are as soft as possible, steam them until they reach a fluffy and light texture. Make sure the water in the steamer is boiling before placing the buns inside. This will help them cook evenly and retain their moisture, resulting in a delightful bite with each mouthful.
Additionally, don't overcrowd the steamer. Space the buns apart to allow for proper air circulation, which helps them expand while cooking. If you have a larger batch, consider steaming them in multiple batches instead of cramming them all in at once for the best results.
Variations and Additions
Feel free to get creative with the filling! While the spicy Korean chicken is a standout, you can swap it out for other proteins like pulled pork, tofu, or even shrimp. Add different vegetables or toppings, such as pickled radishes or spicy coleslaw, to complement your chosen filling and enhance the flavor profile of your bao buns.
For those looking for a completely vegetarian option, consider using mushrooms or jackfruit cooked with similar seasoning for a plant-based filling that still packs a punch. The key is to play with textures and flavors, allowing each ingredient to shine while maintaining the integrity of soft, fluffy bao buns.
Storing and Reheating Bao Buns
If you happen to have leftover bao buns, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can steam them again for a few minutes or use the microwave with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. This method ensures that they retain their desirable texture.
For long-term storage, consider freezing the uncooked bao buns. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, steam straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs are generally more flavorful and remain juicier.
→ Can I make the bun dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it until you're ready to steam the buns.
Korean Chicken Bao Buns – Spicy, Sticky & Seriously Soft!
Experience the perfect fusion of flavors with these Korean Chicken Bao Buns! These irresistibly soft steamed buns are filled with spicy, sticky chicken that's bursting with umami goodness. Perfect for serving at parties or for a cozy night in, these bao buns will take your taste buds on a delicious adventure. Easy to make and utterly satisfying, they’re a must-try in your culinary repertoire.
Created by: Sabrina Holt
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12.0
What You'll Need
For the Bao Buns
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 pound chicken thighs, diced
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sliced green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
In a bowl, mix diced chicken with gochujang, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
Divide the dough into small balls, flatten them, and place a spoonful of chicken in the center. Pinch to seal. Place in a steamer and steam for 15 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 10g