Siopao (Asian Filled Buns) #daringbaker

Taking part in the Daring Bakers Group challenge is itself a very learning experience. Every month it helps to increase my confidence level to some extent. So after last months celebration cake I was eagerly waiting for this month's challenge and felt better.

When I started baking, I did not know much about it. However it was my friend who used to give me tips over the chat and phone. He forced me to make breads and the 1st few attempts were really like really bad. However just like everything else, even here plenty of practice somehow helped me to bake the breads perfectly. So, you can guess my happiness when I found out that this month I need to bake bread with sweet/spicy filling for Daring Bakers Group.

Asian filled buns or siopao (show pow) is extremely popular in Philippines. Making this  yeast risen buns is definitely fun. I was less tensed and more happy to see the February Daring Bakers' challenge is hosted by Julie of One-Wall Kitchen. She challenged us to an easy, simple filled bun using no-knead dough.

Siopao Dough and Siopao-

Ingredients-

• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1-1/2 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 egg for egg washing the buns

Method-

• In a mixing bowl mix the yeast, flour, melted butter, salt and sugar. Keep mixing till you get a tacky and non sticky dough while incorporating all the ingredients in it.
• Cover the bowl using a plastic wrap and keep it in a warm place till it becomes double in size.
• During this time you can make the filling of your choice and let it cool. Any savory filling would work. I made non spicy mutton filling.
• Once the dough becomes double in size, on a floured surface fold it and knead it till you get a tacky and smooth dough. You may need to add bit of flour in it. Now divide it into 8 equal size balls.
• Roll the pieces in 6 inch flat discs.
• Place some filling in it and wrap the dough properly around it.
• Place them on a baking tray and let them rest for 40-60 minutes.
• Preheat your oven in 180 degree C.
• Beat the egg and brush on each dough.
• Bake for around 18-22 minues ( mine took 22 minutes).
• Serve hot.