Authentic Mongolian Buuz Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 600 grams of mutton or beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground caraway seeds
  • 300 grams of flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 cup of water (plus extra as needed)

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the water. Knead until smooth and elastic. If needed, add more water or flour. Let the dough rest for about 30 minutes.
  2. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. Finely chop the mutton or beef and mix it with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.
  3. Once the dough has rested, divide it into small pieces, roughly the size of a walnut. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
  4. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the middle of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket, leaving a small opening at the top.
  5. Place the Buuz on a steamer lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each one as they will expand while cooking.
  6. Steam the Buuz over high heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the meat is tender.
  7. Once cooked, remove the Buuz from the steamer and serve hot.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - For mixing the dough and the filling.
  • Knife - To finely chop the onion and garlic, and to prepare the meat.
  • Rolling pin - For rolling out the dough into thin circles.
  • Steamer - To steam the Buuz until they are cooked through.
  • Parchment paper - To line the steamer and prevent the Buuz from sticking.

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of meat like chicken or turkey instead of mutton or beef
  • Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots or cabbage to the filling mixture
  • Experiment with different seasonings like paprika, cumin, or ginger
  • Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option
  • Create a gluten-free version by using alternative flours like rice flour or almond flour
  • Make a vegetarian or vegan version by using plant-based ground meat substitutes or lentils instead of meat
  • Add a spicy kick by including chili pepper or hot sauce in the filling mixture
  • Try a different cooking method such as baking the Buuz in the oven instead of steaming
  • Incorporate herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill into the filling for added flavor
  • Play with the dough by adding spices like turmeric or herbs like rosemary

Recipe overview

Buuz is a traditional Mongolian dish, typically savored during the Lunar New Year celebrations. These delicious dumplings, filled with juicy and flavorful mutton or beef, are a hearty and comforting dish sure to warm you up during the cold winter months. Making Buuz at home is a fun and rewarding process. You'll handcraft the dough, prepare a savory filling, and steam the dumplings to perfection. The final result is a bite-sized pocket of joy with a scrumptuous filling encased in a soft, tender dough. Let's embark on a culinary journey to Mongolia by learning how to make Buuz!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use mutton or beef as specified in the recipe. However, you can also experiment with other meats such as lamb or even ground chicken or turkey if you prefer.
  2. Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Can I freeze the Buuz? Absolutely! Buuz can be frozen after they have been assembled but before steaming. Place the uncooked Buuz on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, steam them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  4. What can I serve with Buuz? Buuz are often enjoyed with a side of pickles or a simple salad. They can also be accompanied by a traditional Mongolian sauce called "Nikisi" made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes. Additionally, Buuz can be served as part of a larger meal alongside other Mongolian dishes.
  5. Can I bake Buuz instead of steaming? While traditionally Buuz are steamed, you can also bake them in the oven if you prefer. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the assembled Buuz on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the meat is cooked through.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Buuz is a traditional Mongolian dish that is most commonly eaten during the Lunar New Year celebration, also known as Tsagaan Sar. However, the enjoyment of these steamed dumplings is not confined to this festival alone. They are a favorite choice for many Mongolians throughout the chilly winter months. The small opening at the top has a functional purpose - it allows the steam to escape, thus preventing the dumpling from bursting. But it also serves as a window to the soul of the dish, offering a glimpse at the savory filling inside. The preparation of Buuz also has a social aspect to it. The process of filling and shaping these dumplings is often a communal activity, bringing together families and friends in a celebration of unity and tradition.

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.