Name: Cheat Scallion Buns Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 200g self-raising flour; 170g Greek yoghurt (use vegan yoghurt for plant-based option); 4 spring onions, finely sliced; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 2 tbsp grated mozzarella cheese; Olive oil, for drizzling; Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Introduction

These Cheat Scallion Buns are a quick and easy way to enjoy fluffy, flavorful buns without any complicated dough rising. Filled with savory garlic, fresh spring onions, and melted mozzarella, they are perfect as a snack or a side dish for any meal.

A black plate holds four pieces of cooked food arranged in a neat row, each piece covered with thin, tightly wrapped layers of pale yellow dough that look smooth and slightly shiny. Small black sesame seeds are sprinkled evenly over the top of each piece. The base underneath the dough is browned, giving a crispy look that contrasts with the soft dough layers above. To the side of the plate, a pair of dark wooden chopsticks rests diagonally. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

200g self-raising flour
170g Greek yoghurt (use vegan yoghurt if you want it to be plant-based)
4 spring onions, finely sliced
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tbsp grated mozzarella cheese
Olive oil, for drizzling
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour and Greek yoghurt. Stir in a clockwise motion until a rough dough forms. Turn the dough onto a clean surface and knead for a couple of minutes. Cover with cling film and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the spring onions, garlic, and mozzarella, then set them aside.
Step 3: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts.
Step 4: Flour your clean surface and roll out a piece of dough until it is about 0.75cm thick. Fold in the two outer edges to create a thin rectangular strip, then roll it out again in one direction to maintain about 0.75cm thickness. Trim the ends to create a perfect rectangle.
Step 5: Drizzle olive oil on one side of the dough strip. Sprinkle the top half with spring onions, garlic, and mozzarella. Cut the bottom half into mini strips to create a decorative pattern. Carefully roll up the bun, then repeat these steps for the remaining dough pieces.
Step 6: Place each bun on parchment paper and steam for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
Step 7: Optional: Pan-fry the steamed buns on high heat for about 3 minutes to get a crispy bottom. Garnish with sesame seeds and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use vegan yoghurt and dairy-free cheese to make this recipe fully plant-based.
Add a little chopped chili or five-spice powder to the filling for extra flavor.
For a softer dough, knead it slightly longer before setting it aside.
Serve with soy sauce or a chili dipping sauce for added taste.

Storage

Store any leftover buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat by steaming them again for a few minutes or warming gently in a pan. Avoid microwaving as it can make the buns tough.

How to Serve

A close-up of a soft, light beige steamed bun with black sesame seeds on its smooth outer layer is being pulled apart by two woman's hands against a plain white background. The interior reveals a fluffy white dough layer filled with melted, stretchy white cheese mixed with small pieces of green herbs, creating a gooey, elastic texture as the bun is stretched open. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour?

Self-raising flour is preferable because it helps the buns rise and become fluffy. If using plain flour, add 1½ teaspoons of baking powder to the flour to mimic the effect.

What can I use if I don’t have a steamer?

You can improvise a steamer by placing a heatproof plate on a rack inside a large pot with some water at the bottom. Cover tightly and steam the buns over simmering water.