The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Discover the Crunchy Delight of Fried Mantou Buns
Hey there, food lovers. You know that moment when you bite into something crispy yet soft inside? That’s exactly what fried mantou buns bring to the table. These golden treats transform simple steamed mantou into a snack everyone craves. And today, let’s dive into why they deserve a spot in your kitchen adventures.
First off, fried mantou buns start with basic mantou dough. But frying adds that irresistible crunch. Imagine plain Chinese steamed buns getting a makeover. Suddenly, they become addictive. Plus, they’re versatile for any meal.
What Makes Fried Mantou Buns So Special?
So, what sets fried mantou buns apart? For starters, the texture contrast wins hearts. The outside crisps up beautifully in hot oil. Meanwhile, the inside stays fluffy and light. This combo hooks you from the first bite.
Additionally, their history ties back to Chinese cuisine. Mantou originated in northern China as a staple. Then, someone clever decided to fry them. Now, fried mantou appears in street food stalls and home kitchens alike.
Moreover, you can tweak them endlessly. Dip in condensed milk for sweetness. Or pair with savory dips. Either way, fried mantou buns adapt to your mood.
The Cultural Roots of Fried Mantou
Let’s explore the origins. Mantou buns date back centuries in China. They symbolized prosperity during festivals. But frying elevated them. In Taiwan and Singapore, fried mantou often accompanies chili crab. That pairing? Pure genius.
Furthermore, in modern twists, chefs experiment boldly. Some stuff them with fillings before frying. Others sprinkle spices on top. Consequently, fried mantou buns evolve constantly.
Why You Should Try Fried Mantou Buns at Home
Thinking about making them? Great idea. Fried mantou buns require minimal ingredients. You likely have flour, yeast, and oil ready. And the process? Straightforward and fun.
Besides, homemade versions taste fresher. You control the crispiness level. Want extra golden? Fry a bit longer. Prefer softer? Pull them out sooner. Thus, you customize every batch.
Also, they’re budget-friendly. Skip expensive takeout. Whip up fried mantou buns instead. Your wallet and taste buds will thank you.
More Snack Recipes ✨️
Seaweed & Beancurd Salad
Ultra-Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls
Thai-Style Mango Salad
Chicken Panini
Zucchini Fritters
Besan Dhokla
Guacamole Salad
Sweet Fried Plantains (Maduros)
Crispy Tofu Bites
Supreme Fries
Fried Mantou Buns
Golden-brown, crispy on the outside, and incredibly fluffy on the inside, these Chinese Fried Mantou Buns are a popular street food and dim sum staple. Perfect as a savory or sweet snack, they are deliciously versatile and served with condensed milk for dipping.
Rate This Recipe
Turn On Cooking Mode 💡
Equipment
Ingredients
- 300 g all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 5 g instant yeast about 1.5 tsp
- 30 g granulated sugar adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 150 ml warm whole milk about 110°F / 43°C
- 15 ml neutral oil plus more for brushing
- 1 L neutral oil for frying vegetable, canola, or peanut
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk for serving
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds optional, for garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped scallions optional, for savory version
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and activated.
- Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with dough hook, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and 15ml oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Knead for 8-10 minutes by hand (or 5-7 minutes with mixer) until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. Add a little more flour if too sticky.
- First Proof: Form dough into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with damp cloth. Let rise in warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape Buns: Punch down dough and turn onto floured surface. Roll into a long log about 1.5-inch thick. Cut into 8 equal pieces with sharp knife.
- Second Proof: Place shaped buns on parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with damp cloth, and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
- Heat Oil: In a wok or deep fryer, heat 1L oil to 325-340°F (163-171°C). Use thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry Buns: Carefully add 3-4 buns at a time, not crowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
- Drain and Cool: Remove with spider strainer and drain on wire rack. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve warm with sweetened condensed milk for dipping. Garnish with sesame seeds or scallions if desired.
Notes
🔹 Yeast activation is crucial – if mixture doesn’t foam, yeast may be dead and dough won’t rise properly.
🔹 Maintain oil temperature carefully – too hot will burn outside while inside remains doughy; too cool will make buns greasy.
🔹 For extra fluffy texture, you can steam the buns for 8-10 minutes before frying.
🔹 Buns can be made ahead through shaping step and refrigerated overnight for second proof.
🔹 Serve immediately for best texture – they lose crispiness as they cool.
🔹 For savory version, sprinkle with salt and five-spice powder after frying, or fill with pulled pork or curry.
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 1IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg
Tried this recipe? how it was!
Pairing Ideas for Crispy Mantou Buns
Now, let’s talk pairings. Fried mantou buns shine with soups. Dunk them in hot broth for comfort. Or serve alongside stir-fries. They soak up sauces perfectly.
Additionally, for desserts, drizzle honey. Sprinkle powdered sugar too. Suddenly, you have a sweet treat. Kids love this version especially.
Moreover, try them in sandwiches. Slice open and fill with meats or veggies. This creates a unique fusion bite.
Health Tips for Enjoying Fried Mantou Buns
Worried about the frying part? Don’t be. Use healthier oils like avocado or canola. They handle high heat well. Plus, fry in moderation.
Furthermore, balance with veggies. Add a side salad. This keeps meals nutritious. And remember, portion control matters.
Also, air-frying offers a lighter option. You get similar crunch without deep oil. So, experiment with methods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Fried Mantou
First, don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each bun space. Otherwise, they steam instead of fry. Next, heat oil properly. Too cool? Soggy results. Too hot? Burnt outsides.
Additionally, pat dry after frying. This removes excess oil. Then, serve immediately. Crispiness fades over time.
Variations on Traditional Fried Mantou Buns
Ready for twists? Add sesame seeds before frying. They toast up nicely. Or mix herbs into the dough. This infuses flavor deeply.
Besides, go vegan easily. Mantou bases on plant ingredients. No changes needed. Thus, everyone enjoys them.
Moreover, regional styles inspire. In Shanghai, they might add sugar. In Hong Kong, pair with congee. Explore these for new ideas.
Storing and Reheating Crispy Fried Mantou
Got leftovers? Store in airtight containers. Keep at room temp for a day. For longer, refrigerate.
To reheat, use an oven. This revives the crunch. Avoid microwaves. They soften everything.
Furthermore, freeze uncooked mantou. Fry fresh when needed. This saves time later.
In conclusion, fried mantou buns offer endless joy. From crunchy exteriors to fluffy insides, they delight. So, grab some and start exploring. You won’t regret it.
