The Best Vegan Gua Bao
Description
Soft, pillowy steamed buns filled with savory, flavorful plant-based goodness, these Vegan Gua Bao are a true delight! With perfectly marinated tofu, crisp vegetables, and a rich hoisin-based sauce, this dish brings a taste of Taiwanese street food straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Steamed Buns:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup warm water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Marinated Tofu:
1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ginger powder
For the Toppings:
½ cup shredded carrots
½ cup cucumber slices
¼ cup chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons crushed peanuts
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Hoisin sauce for drizzling
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and baking powder.
Add warm water and vegetable oil, then mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Shape & Steam the Buns
Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and roll each into an oval shape.
Fold each oval in half and place on parchment paper.
Let rest for 15 minutes.
Steam over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until fluffy.
3. Marinate & Cook the Tofu
In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
Add tofu slices and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the tofu for 3-4 minutes on each side until caramelized.
4. Assemble the Gua Bao
Open each steamed bun and spread a little hoisin sauce inside.
Add a slice of marinated tofu, followed by shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and chopped cilantro.
Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 220
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Gua Bao, also known as Taiwanese steamed buns or "pork belly buns," are traditionally made with braised pork belly inside a fluffy steamed bun. As a vegan, I wanted to recreate this iconic street food with a plant-based twist that still delivers the same umami-packed, melt-in-your-mouth experience. After plenty of experimenting, I found that marinated tofu provides the perfect balance of texture and flavor, making this dish just as irresistible as its traditional counterpart.
These Vegan Gua Bao are a delicious fusion of soft, fluffy buns and bold, savory flavors. Whether you're making them for a casual meal or a special occasion, they’re sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of homemade Taiwanese street food!
The Importance of Each Ingredient :
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the soft, fluffy base of the steamed buns.
Yeast & Sugar: Help the dough rise and create a light, airy texture.
Baking Powder: Adds a slight lift for extra fluffiness.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the dough tender and prevents sticking.
Tofu: Acts as the protein-rich filling, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Soy Sauce & Hoisin Sauce: Provide umami and depth to the marinated tofu.
Maple Syrup & Rice Vinegar: Balance the marinade with sweetness and acidity.
Garlic & Ginger Powder: Enhance the overall taste with warm, aromatic notes.
Fresh Vegetables & Herbs: Add crunch, color, and freshness.
Crushed Peanuts & Sesame Seeds: Offer a satisfying texture contrast.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Vegan Gua Bao
Use Warm Water for the Dough: This ensures proper yeast activation and a fluffy bun texture.
Marinate the Tofu Well: The longer the tofu soaks in the marinade, the richer the flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Steamer: Give each bun space to expand for even cooking.
Assemble Just Before Serving: This keeps the buns fresh and prevents sogginess.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe:
Authentic Flavor, Plant-Based Ingredients: The marinated tofu and hoisin sauce give it a deep, rich taste.
Soft & Fluffy Buns: Perfectly steamed bao that melt in your mouth.
Healthier Alternative: No animal products, yet still packed with protein and fiber.
Fun & Customizable: Load it up with your favorite toppings and veggies.
Great for Sharing: Perfect for gatherings, family meals, or meal prep.
The Best Vegan Gua Bao
Author: Purely Plant Plates
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Dough Rising Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6 bao buns
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Purely Plant Plates – A Nourishing Food Blog
Purely Plant Plates is a comprehensive food blog dedicated to plant-based living, offering a wealth of delicious and nutritious vegan recipes, expert baking tips, and in-depth nutritional insights. Whether you're a long-time vegan, exploring plant-based eating for the first time, or simply looking to incorporate more wholesome, animal-free meals into your diet, this blog is your go-to resource for all things vegan cooking.
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