Get ready to embark on a journey of soft, fluffy perfection as we unveil the mouthwatering world of steamed bread! Bursting with aroma and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, steamed bread is a delightful treat that transcends borders and cultures. Originating from various corners of the globe, this culinary wonder has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers everywhere. So, join us as we dive into the realm of steamed bread, where a simple mixture of dough transforms into a cloud-like creation that will leave you craving every heavenly bite. Get ready to indulge in the divine magic of steamed bread, a recipe that will steam its way straight into your soul!

Steamed bread recipe

Steamed bread is a unique type of bread that is prepared by cooking the dough through the process of steaming, rather than baking it in an oven. It is a popular staple in many cultures around the world, known for its fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor.

The basic ingredients for steamed bread typically include flour, water, yeast, and a small amount of sugar or other sweeteners. The dough is mixed together, allowed to rise, and then placed in a steamer where it is cooked with steam until it becomes light and airy.

Steaming the bread instead of baking it creates a distinct texture that is moist, tender, and almost cake-like. The steam gently cooks the dough, resulting in a soft and spongy interior while retaining a slightly chewy crust on the outside.

Steamed bread can be enjoyed in various forms and flavors. It can be made into buns, rolls, or even shaped into a loaf. Depending on regional preferences, different ingredients may be added to the dough to enhance the flavor and texture, such as milk, butter, or spices.

Steamed bread is often served as a side dish or used as a vessel for other ingredients, such as fillings or spreads. It pairs well with savory dishes like stews, soups, or curries, providing a light and fluffy accompaniment to soak up flavors.

This delightful bread variation offers a wonderful alternative to traditional baked bread, showcasing the versatility and ingenuity of culinary traditions worldwide. So, prepare to embark on a tantalizing journey of taste and texture with the irresistible charm of steamed bread.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Side Dish

Cuisine south african

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup lukewarm water

Instructions

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the lukewarm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the liquid, using a wooden spoon or your hands, until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, lightly punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into smaller portions, depending on the size of the steamed buns or rolls you desire.
Shape each portion of dough into your desired shape, such as round buns or cylindrical rolls, and place them on individual pieces of parchment paper.
Prepare a steamer by filling a pot with water and placing a steamer basket or rack inside. Make sure the water doesn't touch the bottom of the steamer basket.
Arrange the parchment paper with the shaped dough on the steamer basket, leaving enough space between them to allow for expansion during steaming. Cover the steamer with a lid.
Steam the bread over medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is cooked through and puffy.
Carefully remove the steamed bread from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Steamed bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. You can serve it as a side dish, use it as a bun for sandwiches, or pair it with your favorite spreads or fillings. Get creative and enjoy the fluffy, moist texture of your homemade steamed bread!

SOURCE: MY RECIPE JOINT

Video

Notes

When cooking steamed bread, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Here are three key points to note:

1. Yeast Activation: Properly activating the yeast is crucial for successful steamed bread. Make sure the water you use to dissolve the yeast is lukewarm, around 105-110°F (40-43°C). If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, while if it's too cold, the yeast may not activate properly. The yeast should become foamy and bubbly after sitting for a few minutes, indicating that it's active and ready to leaven the bread.

2. Steaming Time and Temperature: The cooking time and temperature for steamed bread can vary depending on the size and thickness of the bread. It's essential to monitor the steaming process closely to achieve the desired texture. Start by steaming the bread over medium-high heat, and adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady steam. The bread is cooked when it becomes puffy, firm to the touch, and cooked through. It's recommended to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a bread bun or roll – if it comes out clean, the bread is cooked.

3. Proper Steaming Set-Up: Creating the right steaming set-up is important for successful steamed bread. Ensure that the water in the pot doesn't touch the bottom of the steamer basket or rack to prevent the bread from becoming waterlogged. If necessary, use a heatproof plate or add extra water to the pot during the steaming process to maintain a steady supply of steam. Also, be mindful of overcrowding the steamer basket or rack, as the bread needs space to expand during cooking. Steam the bread in batches if needed, leaving enough room between each piece to allow for proper rising.

By paying attention to these three aspects, you'll have a better chance of achieving delicious, fluffy steamed bread with a desirable texture. Enjoy the process of steaming and savor the delightful results of your homemade steamed bread!

Nutrition

Serving: 100g

Keyword Steamed bread

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