Malaysian steamed buns or (Malaysians know as “pau”) are a delicious staple at every dinner across Asia and the world. It’s easy to see why: the soft airy texture, elasticity and freshness make them not only irresistible but also suited to an endless range of cooking applications! Pau are one of the many Chinese culinary influences that were brought to Malaysia by Chinese immigrants whose contributions later formed the basis of the “Nyonya” cooking style. Whether eaten either as a snack or an accompaniment to the main meal, our frozen pau is also available filled with mouthwatering savoury and sweet fillings such as pandan coconut, curry or black sesame. Show Pau is traditionally cooked using a bamboo steamer, and it’s this technique that diffuses moisture into the bun to give it that much loved puffy texture. At the same time, any excess moisture buildup is absorbed into the bamboo weaving. This avoids moisture droplets from building up and soaking through the bun. If you are away from home or in other parts of the world, sometimes a bamboo steamer might not be on hand but don’t worry, there are some inventive alternative methods you can use to cook steamed buns without a steamer! All of these cooking methods can be done successfully with our frozen bao, without the need for defrosting. Cooking Steamed Buns in the Microwave Steaming bao in the microwave is a great technique because it’s fast, simple and microwaves are a common fixture in many kitchens across the world. You will need:
How to steam a bun in the microwave:
It’s important to microwave the bun in short intervals on a medium setting. If you microwave it for too long at a high setting, the bun will dry out and become hard. Steam Using a Sieve You can replicate a steamer with very little effort by placing your buns in a common kitchen sieve or colander, then suspending it over boiling water. Creating a tower from plates and tea towels will stop the steam from escaping, causing your buns to steam cook! The equipment needed for this method couldn’t be simpler:
How to steam buns using a sieve:
Deep-Fried Steamed Buns Using nothing more than a wok with oil, you can effectively deep fry your buns. This is will of course produce a very different finish, but the technique comes with its own unique flavour profile and texture. You will need:
How to fry steamed buns:
Cooking Steamed Buns in the Oven You can make a quick and easy improvised steaming device using a tin foil baking dish and boiling pan!
How to make your own bun steamer:
Steamed Buns from PA Food The joy of mouth-watering pau steam buns is accessible to anyone anywhere in the world! As a proud Malaysian family-run business, it’s our mission to share the unique tastes of Malaysian cuisines through our range of frozen steamed buns. In fact, our founder and Mr Ding invented Malaysia’s first-ever halal steam bun, an achievement that has made PA Food Malaysia’s most revered food producers. Our range of pau now makes it easy for more and more people across the world to store and enjoy this mouthwatering delicacy. With a range of both halal and vegetarian options, everyone can now enjoy our steam buns. If you are interested in importing PA Food steam buns from Malaysia’s most authentic food producer, contact our friendly commercial team who will be happy to help! How do you steam frozen bao buns without a steamer?You can replicate a steamer with very little effort by placing your buns in a common kitchen sieve or colander, then suspending it over boiling water.
How do you steam store bought bao buns?STEAMER METHOD
Arrange bun(s) in a single layer in the steamer, place a clean cloth on top, then add the lid. (The cloth helps prevent any water from dripping on the dough.) Steam bun(s) for 7 to 8 minutes until piping hot. Enjoy your delicious bao!
How do you steam bao buns at home?Preheat the water in a water compartment of the steamer. Place the buns in the second tear of the steamer still on the baking parchment. Make sure the buns don't touch the sides of the steamer, as the water will drip directly down the sides. Cover and steam for 10-12 minutes.
How do you cook frozen gua bao buns?Steam: Remove packaging and place the frozen buns in a steamer. Steam for 5 minutes at a medium heat. Microwave: Remove packaging and place the frozen buns in a microwave dish with a small amount of water. Cook for 1.5 minutes on medium power.
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