Crispy Little Pillows of Joy (Vegan Pan-Fried Buns, Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

Are you ready to take your taste buds on an adventure to the bustling streets of Taipei? Our Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) are here to do just that! These golden-brown beauties are delightfully stuffed with a medley of crunchy cabbage, delicate vermicelli noodles, and vibrant veggies. The magic happens when they are pan-fried to create a crispy exterior, followed by a gentle steam that leaves the inside perfectly chewy and flavorful. Each bite is like a little burst of happiness, transporting you directly to a lively night market. Let’s dive into this scrumptious journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not convinced yet? Here’s why you’ll be head over heels for these Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包):
– Big, Bold Flavors: Each bun is packed with an explosion of savory goodness that will satisfy your cravings.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family dinners, everyone will be clamoring for more of these irresistible bites!
– Flexible & Fast: Customize your fillings and enjoy a fun cooking experience that’s sure to impress.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Whip up a batch, freeze them, and indulge in a homemade treat whenever you desire!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your flavorful essentials and get ready for a culinary adventure! Here are the star players that make these Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) so extraordinary:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 g)
– 2 tsp instant dry yeast
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
– 1 cup warm soy milk (or other non-dairy milk)
– 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil (or neutral oil)
– 1 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking)
– 6 cups raw shredded cabbage (from 1/2 large head of cabbage)
– 3.5 oz uncooked bundles of vermicelli noodles (100g total)
– 1 cup finely shredded or grated carrot (150g)
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions or chives (25g)
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tsp salt (or to taste)
– 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

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Variations

One of the best things about these Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) is how customizable they are! Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend for a delightful alternative.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some crumbled tofu or tempeh for a heartier filling.
– Make it Spicier: Spice things up with some chili flakes or Szechuan peppercorns for an extra kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different sauces or marinades for your filling to switch up the flavor profile.
– Colorful Additions: Add vibrant veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flair and nutrition!

How to Make Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Begin by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl, creating a well in the center. Pour in the warm soy milk and sesame oil, stirring until a dough forms.
2. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for at least 2 hours until it’s fluffy and ready to shine!

Step 2: Cook the Filling

3. Soak the vermicelli noodles in boiling water for 7-8 minutes, then chop them into small pieces.
4. In a hot pan with 1 tbsp neutral oil, sauté the chives, carrots, and cabbage over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes until tender.
5. Add in the chopped noodles, soy sauce, salt, and oil, mixing well for another 2-3 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and let it cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Wrappers

6. Punch a hole in the dough to stretch it into a ring, then slice into 12 or 16 pieces, shaping each into a ball.
7. Roll out each piece into a 3-5 inch round wrapper, dusting with flour to prevent sticking. Don’t worry about perfection—rustic is charming!

Step 4: Assemble the Buns

8. Place 2-3 tbsp of filling in the center of each wrapper. Pinch and twist the edges to seal, creating beautiful little parcels.
9. Lightly press down the tops of the buns and place them on a tray, covering with a towel to keep them moist.

Step 5: Cook the Buns

10. Heat a pan with 1 tbsp of oil (for every 4 buns). Add the buns creased-side down and cook until golden brown (4-5 minutes).
11. Carefully add 4 tbsp of water, cover immediately, and steam for about 5-6 minutes until the water evaporates.
12. Repeat until all buns are perfectly golden and delightful! Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like a mix of soy sauce, sugar, and chili sauce.

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Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包)

– Don’t Rush the Dough: Allow your dough ample time to rise for a fluffier texture.
– Control the Heat: Keep an eye on your pan’s temperature to achieve that gorgeous golden crust without burning.
– Embrace Imperfection: Wrappers don’t have to be perfectly round—this is all about your personal touch!
– Use a Non-Stick Pan: This prevents sticking and ensures your buns come out beautifully crisp.

How to Serve Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎 Bao)

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra roasted sesame seeds and finely chopped scallions for a pop of color and crunch on top of your buns!

Side Dishes

Pair your Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) with a tangy cucumber salad or a steaming bowl of miso soup for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them on a beautiful platter with individual dipping sauces for each guest, or pack them in cute bento boxes for a delightful lunch surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate cooked buns in an air-tight container for up to 5 days. They’ll be ready for a quick snack!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze them too! Lay them out on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a bag. No need to thaw—just reheat directly from frozen!

Reheating

To enjoy your buns again, pan-fry them with a splash of water, oven-toast them at a low heat, or microwave with a little water to keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! Experiment with whole wheat or a gluten-free flour blend for different textures.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently, but you can easily add spices or hot sauce to the filling if you desire some heat!

How do I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare and assemble the buns, then freeze them. Just cook them straight from frozen whenever you want a warm treat!

What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Try using mushrooms, spinach, or any veggies you love for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

Your culinary adventure awaits! These Vegan Pan-Fried Buns (Sheng Jian Bao, 生煎包) are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, filled with flavor, warmth, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh or savoring leftovers, they’re bound to bring a little joy to your table. Go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking—deliciousness is just a few steps away! Happy eating! 🌟