Spicy Minced Meat Folded Buns

Ingredients

Dough:

• 300g all-purpose flour

• 3g yeast

• 160g warm water

Meat Filling:

• 200g ground pork or beef

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp chili powder or chili noodles

• 1 tsp Chinese thirteen spice blend

• 2 tbsp hot oil

Spicy Oil Mix:

• 1 tbsp white sesame seeds

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp thirteen spice

• 2 tbsp hot oil

Toppings:

• Chopped green onions

• Optional: more sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large bowl, combine 300g flour, 3g yeast, and 160g warm water. Mix and knead until the dough becomes smooth. Cover and let ferment until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

2. Make the Spicy Minced Meat
   In a separate bowl, combine ground meat, soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili powder, and thirteen spice. Pour in 2 tbsp of hot oil and stir well. Set aside.

3. Mix the Spicy Oil
   In a small bowl, combine white sesame, chili powder, salt, and thirteen spice. Pour hot oil over the mixture and stir to release the aroma.

4. Prepare the Dough for Filling
   Once the dough has risen, knead it again to remove air bubbles. Roll it out into a large rectangle.

5. Assemble the Buns
   Brush the surface of the dough with the spicy oil.
   Spread a generous layer of the prepared meat mixture over the dough.
   Sprinkle chopped green onions on top.

6. Shape the Buns
   Roll the dough lengthwise into a log. Cut into equal cubes.
   Using chopsticks, press down the center of each cube.
   Fold each piece in half where pressed to form the classic "flower bun" shape. Press lightly to seal.

7. Steam the Buns
   Place the shaped buns in a steamer, spacing them slightly apart.
   Let rest for 10 minutes. Then steam over high heat for 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestion

Serve warm as a spicy snack or pair with a simple cucumber salad for contrast. These buns also reheat well and make a great lunchbox item.