Ingredients
For the Bao Buns:
2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water 💧
1/4 cup warm milk 🥛
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Korean Chicken:
1 lb (450 g) chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless 🍗
1/2 cup cornstarch 🌾
2 eggs, beaten 🥚
Oil for frying
For the Sauce:
1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste) 🌶️
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey 🍯
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
1 teaspoon grated ginger
For Garnish:
Thinly sliced cucumbers 🥒
Shredded carrots 🥕
Fresh cilantro 🌿
Sesame seeds
Directions
Prepare the Bao Buns:
Make the Dough:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Mix and Knead:
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Let It Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape and Steam:
Divide the dough into 8 pieces, roll each into an oval, and fold it in half. Steam the buns over simmering water for 10–12 minutes.
Prepare the Chicken:
Coat the Chicken:
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Coat with cornstarch, dip in beaten eggs, and fry in hot oil until golden and crispy.
Make the Sauce:
In a skillet, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Simmer over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
Toss the Chicken:
Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Assemble the Bao:
Fill the Buns:
Open each steamed bao bun and fill with a few pieces of Korean chicken.
Add Toppings:
Top with sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, cilantro, and sesame seeds for garnish.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm as a flavorful appetizer or main dish! These bao buns are perfect for a fusion-inspired meal.
Tips for Success:
Use pre-made frozen bao buns for quicker preparation.
Adjust the gochujang amount for your preferred spice level.
Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 4
