red dates steamed buns

How to Make Red Date Mantou: A Complete Guide

Red date mantou, a soft and slightly sweet steamed bun, is a beloved Chinese snack. Here’s a simple recipe to make it at home.

Ingredients:

- 500g all-purpose flour

- 200g pitted red dates, chopped

- 7g active dry yeast

- 250ml warm water (35-40°C)

- 30g sugar

- A pinch of salt

Steps:

1. Activate yeast: Mix yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead into a smooth, elastic dough (about 10-15 minutes). Add chopped red dates and knead evenly.

3. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

4. Shape mantou: Punch down the dough, divide into equal portions, and shape each into a round bun. Place them on parchment paper-lined steamer trays, leaving space for expansion.

5. Second rise: Cover and let rise for 20-30 minutes.

6. Steam: Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Place trays in, cover tightly, and steam over medium-high heat for 20 minutes. Turn off heat and let sit for 5 minutes before opening.

Tips: For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of osmanthus water. Serve warm with tea or as a breakfast treat. Enjoy your homemade red date mantou!