Authentic Japanese Nikuman Recipe: Delicious Steamed Pork Buns at Home

Ingredients

  • For the dough:
    • 300 grams of all-purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon of sugar
    • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
    • 200 milliliters of warm water
    • 1 teaspoon of dry yeast
  • For the filling:
    • 200 grams of ground pork
    • 1/2 cup of finely chopped cabbage
    • 2 green onions, finely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
    • 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
    • 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
    • 1 clove of garlic, minced
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by making the dough: combine the all-purpose flour, sugar and baking powder in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the warm water and dry yeast together until yeast is dissolved.
  3. Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and knead until the dough becomes smooth. Cover the dough and let it rest for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
  4. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
  5. Once the dough is ready, divide it into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a round disc.
  6. Place a portion of the filling in the center of each disc. Gather the edges of the dough up around the filling, then twist and seal at the top.
  7. Place each bun on a piece of parchment paper.
  8. Steam the buns in a steamer for about 15 minutes, or until the buns are fluffy and the filling is cooked through.
  9. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Try using different types of ground meat such as chicken, beef, or turkey instead of pork for the filling.
  • Add diced vegetables like carrots or mushrooms to the filling mixture for added texture and flavor.
  • For a meat-free option, replace the ground meat with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
  • Experiment with different seasonings and sauces for the filling, such as hoisin sauce or oyster sauce.
  • Add a spicy kick to the filling by including chili flakes or Sriracha sauce.
  • Create a sweet variation by filling the buns with sweetened red bean paste or custard.
  • For a gluten-free alternative, use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for the dough.
  • Make mini-sized nikuman by dividing the dough into smaller portions and adjusting the steaming time accordingly.
  • Add a twist to the crust by brushing it with beaten egg or sprinkling sesame seeds on top before steaming.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a taste of Japan with this delicious Nikuman recipe! Nikuman is a traditional Japanese steamed bun, typically filled with a savory mixture of ground pork and vegetables. Its soft, fluffy dough combined with the rich and flavorful filling makes it a beloved street food and a comfort food for many. With this recipe, you'll learn how to make both the dough and the filling from scratch. You'll also get to experience the joys of kneading the dough and shaping the buns, which can be a fun and therapeutic process. Once the buns are steamed to perfection, they'll be ready to be enjoyed hot, providing a comforting and filling meal or snack. Whether you're familiar with Nikuman or new to Japanese cuisine, this recipe will bring a delightful culinary adventure to your kitchen. Enjoy the journey!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour?
    You can try using a different type of flour, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture of the dough. All-purpose flour is recommended for the best results.
  2. Can I substitute the ground pork with something else?
    Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with ground chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian filling such as tofu or mushrooms.
  3. Can I make the dough in advance?
    Yes, you can make the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling and filling.
  4. Can I freeze the nikuman?
    Yes, you can freeze the nikuman. After steaming, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, steam them for a few minutes until heated through.
  5. Can I bake the nikuman instead of steaming?
    Traditionally, nikuman is steamed, but if you prefer a baked version, you can brush the buns with beaten egg and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
    Yes, you can customize the filling by adding additional ingredients such as finely chopped carrots, mushrooms, or even cheese. Just make sure not to overload the bun with too much filling to ensure proper sealing.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining ingredients and kneading the dough.
  • Steamer - A pot or steamer basket used to steam the nikuman buns.
  • Parchment Paper - Used to line the steamer and prevent the buns from sticking.
  • Knife - For chopping ingredients, such as cabbage and green onions.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
  • Rolling Pin - For rolling out the dough into round discs.

Origin stories

Nikuman, a popular and beloved street food in Japan, actually has its roots in China, where similar steamed buns, known as baozi, have been enjoyed for centuries. The name "Nikuman" is derived from "niku" meaning meat, and "manju", a type of Japanese bun, essentially translating to "meat bun". Despite its Chinese origin, Nikuman has been fully embraced and adapted by the Japanese, who filled these fluffy steamed buns with a variety of fillings, such as red bean paste and sweet potato, and even pizza fillings, showcasing Japanese culinary creativity. These buns are traditionally sold in food stalls and convenience stores during the colder months, making them a comforting snack to warm up those chilly days.

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.