Name: Savory Steamed Pork Buns with Chive: A Homemade Delight
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Ginger Water (Can be substituted with grated ginger or omitted.); 1 cup Warm Water (Around 110°F (43°C).); 2 tbsp Sugar (Granulated sugar recommended.); 2 tsp Active Dry Yeast (Ensure it's fresh.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Bread flour can be used.); 1 lb Ground Pork (Can substitute with ground chicken or tofu.); 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce (Can be replaced with soy sauce.); 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (Light and Dark) (Low-sodium versions recommended.); 2 tbsp Shaoxing Wine (Can be substituted with dry sherry.); 1 tbsp Cornstarch (Can be swapped with potato starch.); 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Sugar; 1 tsp Ground White Pepper; 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil (Omit if allergic.); 1 cup Chinese Chives (Regular chives can be used.)

As I watched the steam rise from the pot, the fragrant aroma of ginger and savory pork filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the bustling streets of Northern China. Making authentic Chinese Steamed Pork Buns with Chive has become one of my favorite culinary adventures. They’re not just easy to whip up; these buns are a joyful upgrade to takeout and a cozy comfort food that brings everyone to the table. Each fluffy bun, filled with tender ground pork and fresh chives, promises a satisfying bite that will leave you craving more. Imagine serving these delightful pockets of flavor at your next gathering or enjoying them as a warm snack on a chilly evening. What variations will you try – or will you stick with this classic? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why are these buns a must-try?

Uniqueness in Flavor: The combination of ginger, chives, and pork creates a filling that’s bursting with savory goodness. Each bite takes you right to the heart of street food culture!

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have homemade buns ready to steam in no time. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap the ground pork for chicken or tofu to suit dietary preferences—endless possibilities for everyone at the table!

Comforting and Satisfying: These soft, fluffy buns offer a comforting warmth that makes them the perfect snack or meal, ideal for cozy evenings in.

Invite Your Friends: Serve these mouthwatering Steamed Pork Buns with Chive at your next gathering, and watch your guests rave about their deliciousness. Want to elevate your dinner even more? Check out my Sweet Caramelized Pork and Pork Tenderloin Dijon recipes for more crowd-pleasing options!

Steamed Pork Buns with Chive Ingredients

For the Dough

Ginger Water – Adds a fragrant, warm undertone; can be substituted with grated ginger or omitted if not available.
Warm Water – Activates yeast for dough rise; ensure it is around 110°F (43°C) for best results.
Sugar – Feeds the yeast for better growth; granulated sugar or other sweeteners work well.
Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for effective rising.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the dough; bread flour can be used for a chewier texture.

For the Filling

Ground Pork – The main protein source in the filling, providing richness; substitute with ground chicken or tofu for a different taste.
Oyster Sauce – Enhances umami flavor in the filling; can be replaced with soy sauce if needed for dietary reasons.
Soy Sauce (Light and Dark) – Adds depth and color; use low-sodium versions for a lighter option.
Shaoxing Wine – Provides aromatic notes; can substitute with dry sherry.
Cornstarch – Helps bind filling and adds a silky texture; can swap with potato starch.
Salt, Sugar, Ground White Pepper – Balances flavors in the filling.
Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds nutty aroma; omit if allergic.
Chinese Chives – Contributes a garlicky flavor to the filling; use regular chives if unavailable.

Indulge in these delightful steamed buns filled with flavorful ingredients that speak to the soul of homemade Chinese cuisine.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steamed Pork Buns with Chive

Step 1: Prepare Ginger Water
Start by mincing fresh ginger and combining it with boiling water in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit and steep for about 10 minutes to develop flavor, then strain to remove solids. This fragrant ginger water will be the liquid magic that enhances your filling, making the pork filling in your steamed pork buns uniquely delightful.

Step 2: Make Dough
In a separate bowl, mix together warm water (around 110°F/43°C), sugar, and active dry yeast. Wait for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly and frothy, signaling that the yeast is active. Gradually add all-purpose flour and mix either with a stand mixer or by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which may take about 45-90 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, combine the ground pork with the prepared ginger water along with oyster sauce, soy sauces, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. This savory filling should then be refrigerated to blend the flavors while the dough continues to rise, ensuring a fragrant stuffing for your steamed pork buns.

Step 4: Form Buns
Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal pieces and roll out each piece into a round disc, about 4-5 inches wide. Place a tablespoon of the pork filling in the center, then carefully pleat the edges and seal them tight. Arrange the filled buns in a lined steamer, ensuring there’s enough space between them for expansion during steaming.

Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the assembled buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 15 minutes. This important step allows the buns to become even fluffier. During this time, prepare your steamer by bringing water to a rolling boil. You’ll soon have perfectly fluffy steamed pork buns with chive ready to cook.

Step 6: Cook Buns
Place the steamer over the boiling water and steam the buns for about 15 minutes. Watch as they puff up beautifully; they should appear soft and fluffy when ready. After cooking, let the buns rest for about 2 minutes as they cool slightly—this will ensure you enjoy the ideal texture without burning yourself when biting into these delightful steamed pork buns.

Step 7: Serve
Serve the steamed pork buns warm, accompanied by a dipping sauce made from Chinkiang vinegar and soy sauce, with chili oil on the side for an extra kick. These buns are perfect as a snack or part of a meal. Experience the comfort and joy of homemade steamed pork buns with chive that bring the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your table!

Expert Tips for Steamed Pork Buns with Chive

Knead Well: Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps create that fluffy texture your steamed pork buns deserve!
Temperature Matters: Use warm water at 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast. Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, leading to flat buns.
Avoid Over-Proofing: Keep an eye on the dough during the rise. Over-proofing can make your buns dense instead of fluffy, so check every 15 minutes after the first rise.
Steamer Prep: Line your steamer with parchment paper and leave space between buns. This prevents condensation from making the buns soggy, ensuring perfect steamed pork buns with chive.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to swap out the ground pork for alternatives like chicken or tofu. It’s a great opportunity to explore different flavors while tailoring to your taste!

What to Serve with Authentic Chinese Steamed Pork Buns with Chive

As these fluffy, savory buns emerge from the steamer, your kitchen fills with an intoxicating aroma, hinting at a world of delightful pairings to create a memorable meal.

Soy Dipping Sauce: A simple mixture of soy sauce and vinegar enhances the umami notes in the buns, providing a perfect contrast to their fluffy texture.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Crisp and slightly bitter, this vegetable adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the pork filling, creating a delightful harmony.
Sesame Noodles: These noodles, tossed in a fragrant sesame sauce, offer a nutty flavor and slippery texture that complements the buns beautifully, creating a satisfying bite.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: The cool, crunchy cucumbers, dressed with rice vinegar, provide a refreshing palate cleanser between each warm bite of the buns.
Hot and Sour Soup: The bold flavors and warming spices in this soup beautifully contrast with the soft texture of the steamed buns, making for a heartwarming meal. Enjoy the flavors melding as you savor each spoonful.
Chili Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of spicy chili oil brings heat to your meal, enhancing the rich, savory notes of the pork buns, and igniting your taste buds with every bite.
Chinese Tea: A cup of jasmine or oolong tea serves as a perfect beverage, aiding digestion while elevating the dining experience with its subtle floral notes.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet dish, combining soft rice with coconut milk and ripe mango, provides a delightful contrast to the savory buns, finishing your meal on a sweet note.

Storage Tips for Steamed Pork Buns with Chive

Room Temperature: Store leftover buns at room temperature, covered with a clean kitchen towel, for up to 2 hours. This keeps them from drying out but is not recommended for longer storage.

Fridge: Keep cooked buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain their soft texture while enjoying these delicious steamed pork buns with chive.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze buns individually in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month. Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: Steam frozen buns for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave on low power wrapped in a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes. Just be cautious not to overheat them!

Make Ahead Options

These Authentic Chinese Steamed Pork Buns with Chive are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pork filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days to save time during your busy week. Simply mix the ground pork with ginger water and other filling ingredients, then let it chill in an airtight container. For the dough, you can make it up to 24 hours in advance; just allow it to rise, then shape the buns and refrigerate them until you’re ready to steam. To maintain quality, ensure the buns are well-covered to prevent drying out. When ready to enjoy, let the buns rise for 15 minutes, then steam for about 15 minutes. This way, you’ll savor the same soft, fluffy texture without the last-minute rush!

Steamed Pork Buns with Chive Variations

Feel free to ignite your culinary imagination and customize these buns with delightful twists that cater to your unique taste!

Chicken Swap: Substitute ground pork with lean ground chicken for a lighter yet tender filling. This minor change can impress even the pickiest eaters!
Vegetarian Delight: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh, seasoned with the same flavorful ingredients, to create a delicious meatless version that everyone will adore. Add finely chopped mushrooms for extra texture!
Flavor Boost: Incorporate additional spices like five-spice powder or even a dash of sriracha into your filling for a punch of flavor. This simple addition can elevate your buns to a new level of deliciousness!
Crispy Touch: Mix in some finely grated carrots or water chestnuts for a delightful crunch. These ingredients not only enhance the texture but also add a touch of color and sweetness!
Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil to the filling for a burst of fresh flavor. The aromatic combinations can transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Asia!
Heat Up: If you love spice, add chopped fresh chili or a splash of chili oil to the filling. These fiery elements can make your steamed buns memorable and exciting for those who enjoy a kick!
Sweet Version: Try adding a spoonful of hoisin or sweet chili sauce into the filling for a unique sweet-savory twist. This unexpected ingredient can captivate everyone at your dining table!
Dumpling Style: Shape your buns like dumplings and serve with a different dipping sauce like peanut sauce or a citrus soy dip. This alternative presentation can delight your guests and broaden their culinary horizons.

I can’t wait to hear which variation you choose! And if you’re looking for more comforting recipes, why not pair these buns with my Cider Braised Pork for a heartwarming meal?

Steamed Pork Buns with Chive Recipe FAQs

How can I choose the best ingredients for my buns?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, opt for fresh ginger that is firm and fragrant. For ground pork, choose a quality cut with some fat for moisture; around 20% fat content is ideal for flavor. Look for chives that are bright green and free from wilting. As for yeast, check the expiration date to ensure it’s active.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store cooked buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid excess moisture. If you have leftovers, I often recommend reheating them by steaming for the best texture. You can also enjoy them cold, dipping in your favorite sauce!

Can I freeze the buns, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful Steamed Pork Buns with Chive! Once fully cooled, wrap each bun in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just steam the frozen buns for about 15-20 minutes until heated.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, start by checking the temperature of the water used; it should be warm, around 110°F (43°C), not hot! If the yeast didn’t bloom (bubble up in the water), it might be expired. If so, I recommend starting with a fresh batch of yeast. Make sure your dough is kept in a warm environment to encourage rising. If all else fails, give it a gentle knead to rework the gluten and try again!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, definitely! If you’re making these buns for others, keep an eye out for allergies. The recipe contains several common allergens, including wheat and sesame oil. You can easily substitute the ground pork for a plant-based protein to make them suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Additionally, avoid the oyster sauce if you’re cooking for someone who is allergic to shellfish.

How can I make these buns healthier?
To make healthier versions of Steamed Pork Buns with Chive, you can use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. Additionally, swapping ground pork for lean ground chicken or turkey reduces overall fat content. Another alternative is incorporating finely chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms or carrots, into the filling to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor!