Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe

Fluffy, savory, and dazzlingly quick—this Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe will win your heart and taste buds in no time! With pillowy, yogurt-based dough and a richly seasoned beef filling, these handheld buns deliver all the joy of classic bao without the fuss. If you’ve ever craved that irresistible bite but worried it was too complicated, wait until you try this fun, shortcut take!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of everyday staples come together to yield magic! Every ingredient—whether for the dough or the filling—plays its part in making your buns light, juicy, and full of personality.

• Self-raising flour: The secret shortcut for fast, fluffy dough—no yeast or long proofing required!
• Greek yoghurt: Adds much-needed moisture and a subtle tang, ensuring soft, tender buns every time.
• Beef mince (20% fat): The slightly higher fat content keeps the filling extra juicy and flavorful—don’t skimp here!
• Lemongrass stalk: Bashed and chopped, this brightens the beef with citrusy freshness and a subtle floral note.
• Red onion: Adds sweetness and color, and melds beautifully as it cooks inside the bao.
• Garlic cloves: For that classic savory punch—freshly chopped is best!
• Basil: Chopped fresh basil provides peppery, sweet herbiness running throughout the filling.
• Sesame oil: Just a splash brings toasty, nutty depth—incredibly aromatic!
• Light soy sauce: Balances everything with a salty, umami boost.
• Sugar: A pinch of sweetness rounds out and lifts all the flavors.
• Black pepper: For just the right background warmth.

Variations

The genius of the Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe is how flexible it is—feel free to tinker with the filling based on what you have on hand, dietary needs, or whatever flavor mood strikes! Here are some of my favorite ideas to get you started.

• Pork or Chicken: Swap out beef mince for ground pork or chicken—adjust seasonings to match and enjoy a lighter or richer taste.
• Veggie Lovers: Try a filling of chopped mushrooms, cabbage, and carrot tossed with soy sauce and a splash of hoisin for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped red chili or a dash of chili oil to the mix for extra warmth and zing.
• Herb Swap: Use cilantro, mint, or scallions instead of (or in addition to) basil for a completely fresh flavor profile.

How to Make Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe

Step 1: Make the Quick Dough

In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour and Greek yoghurt. Use chopsticks or a sturdy wooden spoon to mix until a shaggy dough forms—don’t worry if it looks rough at this stage! Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until the dough is soft, smooth, and slightly stretchy. Cover with cling film and let it rest while you make the filling—this is your magic window for dough that’s easy to work with later.

Step 2: Prepare the Flavor-Packed Filling

Grab another large bowl and combine the beef mince, finely chopped lemongrass, red onion, garlic, basil, sesame oil, light soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Use chopsticks (as is traditional) or your hands to gently mix—try not to overwork, as you want to keep the filling light and juicy. Set aside while you shape the buns.

Step 3: Shape Your Bao

Retrieve your rested dough and poke a hole in the center with your finger to make a doughnut shape. Slice the ring to open it into a log, then cut into 10 equal pieces for perfectly portioned buns. Roll each piece into a little circle, about 3 inches wide and ½ cm thick. Flour as needed to prevent sticking—the wrappers should feel soft and springy under your hands.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Dumplings

Place a heaping spoonful of the beef filling into the center of each dough circle. To seal, gently pleat the edges together in an anticlockwise motion (check out my video on Instagram for a visual walkthrough!). Pinch well to fully enclose the filling. Place each bun on a little square of parchment so nothing sticks during steaming.

Step 5: Steam, Crisp, and Serve

Set your filled buns in a steamer basket (parchment side down) and steam for 10–15 minutes, until the wrappers are puffed and the filling is cooked through. For that signature cheat bao texture, heat a pan over medium with a splash of oil. Fry the buns, seam side down, for 3–4 minutes until the bottoms turn gorgeously golden and crisp. Serve up warm, and get ready for instant smiles!

How to Serve Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten up your Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe with a sprinkle of sliced scallions, fresh basil leaves, or a dusting of toasted sesame seeds. For a pop of heat, a quick drizzle of chili oil right before serving is just bliss. Don’t forget a small dish of soy sauce or black vinegar on the side for dipping!

Side Dishes

Pair these buns with simple steamed greens, a crisp Asian cucumber salad, or a light noodle soup for a full meal. If you love contrasts, a bright pickled veggie platter or crunchy slaw makes a fun, palate-cleansing side.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, nestle your Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe on a bamboo board with dipping sauces in tiny bowls. Make a “bao bar” with different filling options and let everyone build their own. Or, simply load them into a favorite steamer basket—the puffy tops peeking out make everyone smile!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe? Lucky you! Once cooled, pop any extras into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the bao wrapped, so they don’t dry out between snacking sessions.

Freezing

These buns freeze beautifully—just arrange the cooked (or uncooked) bao on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or cook straight from the freezer if you’re in a hurry.

Reheating

Steam your bao for 5–7 minutes to revive them or give them a quick re-crisp in a hot oiled skillet for that irresistible golden underside. The microwave works too (covered with a damp towel so they stay moist), but try to avoid overheating, which can dry them out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort, flavor, and a wildly fun cooking project, this Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe is calling your name! Give it a try and don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly favorite. Happy cooking—and even happier eating!

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