Authentic Chinese Steamed Flower Rolls (Hua Juan) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 250 ml warm water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 stalks green onions (finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and salt.
  2. Gradually add warm water to the flour mixture while stirring to form a smooth dough.
  3. Once the dough is formed, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and leave it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  5. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the chopped green onions, sugar, and sesame oil in a bowl.
  6. After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly flared surface into a rectangle shape.
  7. Spread the onion filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  8. From the long side, roll the dough up tightly, similar to a Swiss roll. Cut the dough into even pieces.
  9. Take each piece of dough and twist it into a flower shape. Sprinkle the top with white sesame seeds.
  10. Put the shaped dough pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Leave them to rise for another 30 minutes.
  11. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the Hua Juan for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier variation.
  • Add different herbs or spices to the filling, such as garlic powder, chili flakes, or dried parsley.
  • Replace the green onions with finely chopped spinach or kale for a vegetarian option.
  • Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to the filling for a cheesy twist.
  • Experiment with different fillings, such as minced meat, cooked vegetables, or even sweet fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves.
  • Brush the dough with beaten egg before baking to give the Hua Juan a shiny golden crust.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flax seeds on top of the Hua Juan for added texture and flavor.
  • Substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter or olive oil for a different richness.
  • Make mini-sized Hua Juan by dividing the dough into smaller portions and adjusting the baking time accordingly.
  • Add a pinch of five-spice powder or Chinese five-spice seasoning to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe overview

Hua Juan, also known as Chinese Steamed Flower Buns, are a delightful and traditional staple in Northern Chinese cuisine. These buns are not only beautiful to look at, with their unique flower-like shape, but they are also deliciously soft and fluffy, with a sweet and savory green onion filling. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making your own Hua Juan at home. It involves a simple process of making a yeast dough, letting it rise, filling it with a tasty onion mixture, shaping it into flowers, and then baking until golden brown. These buns are perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or as a meal on their own. Enjoy the fun of making and the delight of eating these stunning and tasty Hua Juan Buns!

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
  2. Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture and taste of the Hua Juan may differ slightly.
  3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
  4. Yes, you can use instant yeast. However, you may need to adjust the amount since instant yeast is typically used in smaller quantities compared to active dry yeast. Follow the instructions on the yeast packaging for the appropriate conversion.
  5. Can I omit the green onions?
  6. Yes, if you prefer a plain Hua Juan, you can omit the green onions. The texture and taste will still be delicious.
  7. Can I freeze the Hua Juan?
  8. Yes, you can freeze the Hua Juan. Once baked and cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the oven before serving.
  9. Can I make the dough in advance?
  10. Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Before shaping and baking, let the dough come to room temperature and rise until doubled in size.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the flour and other ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Knife - For chopping the green onions.
  • Rolling Pin - To roll out the dough into a rectangle shape.
  • Baking Tray - A tray to place the shaped Hua Juan for baking.
  • Parchment Paper - To line the baking tray and prevent sticking.
  • Clean Cloth - To cover the dough while it rises.
  • Oven - To bake the Hua Juan until they are golden brown.

Origin stories

Hua Juan, or Chinese flower rolls, are a delightful part of Chinese culinary tradition, originating from the Northern part of China. These fluffy steamed buns, marked by their distinct floral shape and subtle flavors, have been a staple for hundreds of years. The name 'Hua Juan' translates to 'flower roll' in English, a tribute to the intricate shape reminiscent of a blooming flower. Traditionally, these rolls were served as part of a larger array of dishes for important celebrations and festivals. The act of shaping the dough into a flower is seen as a symbol of love and artistry, a true testament to the melding of culinary skills and aesthetics in Chinese gastronomy. The dough's twisting and turning are like the journey of life itself, and enjoying a Hua Juan is not just about savoring a meal, but appreciating the art and tradition behind it.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.