Tang Huoshao (Sweet Sesame Bun)
Tang Huoshao is a traditional Beijing snack. Crispy outside, sweet and aromatic inside, the classic pairing of brown sugar and sesame paste is unforgettable.
Ingredients
7 items- All-purpose flour 300 g
- Dry yeast 3 g
- Warm water 180 ml
- Brown sugar 100 g
- Sesame paste 60 g
- White sesame seeds 30 g
- Vegetable oil 15 ml
Nutrition
Steps (7 steps)
Combine dry yeast with warm water and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour, knead into a smooth dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour), interior should be honeycombed.
Make the filling: In a bowl, mix brown sugar, sesame paste (pre-diluted with warm water), and a little flour until homogeneous and forms a pliable ball, not sticky.
Punch down the dough and knead briefly. Divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a round disc with thicker center and thinner edges, about 8 cm in diameter.
Place one wrapper in your hand, add about 40 g of filling. Pinch the edges together to seal, then gently flatten into a round disc about 2 cm thick.
Brush the surface of each bun with water, then coat evenly with white sesame seeds. Place on an oiled baking tray and proof for 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 180°C. Bake in the middle rack for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and slightly puffed. They should sound hollow when tapped with chopsticks.
Transfer the baked buns to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
Sesame paste should be diluted with warm water to avoid lumps. Ensure the dough is fully risen for a tender texture. Adjust baking time according to your oven and watch the color in the last minutes.
You May Also Like
More recipes you might enjoy
Lanzhou Lamian (Lanzhou Pulled Noodles)
A signature of Northwest Chinese cuisine, Lanzhou Lamian features hand-pulled noodles with a chewy texture, served in a clear and savory beef broth topped with fragrant chili oil. Known for its 'five elements'—clear soup, white radish, red chili, green herbs, and yellow noodles—it's an iconic comfort food.
Pan-fried Pork Buns (Sheng Jian Bao)
Soft and fluffy top with a crispy golden bottom, these Shanghai-style pan-fried pork buns burst with savory juice when you bite into them. A beloved breakfast classic and street food favorite.
Salt-Baked Chicken (Yan Ju Ji)
A Hakka classic from Guangdong, this dish uses a crust of coarse salt to slowly cook the chicken, sealing in its natural juices. The result is golden, savory skin and incredibly tender, succulent meat, infused with the delicate aroma of sand ginger and salt. A must-try for festive dinners.
Shao Mai (Steamed Pork and Shrimp Dumplings)
Shao Mai are classic Chinese steamed dumplings with thin wrappers encasing a savory filling of pork and shrimp. The open-top design showcases the juicy filling, making every bite a heavenly treat. Served with black vinegar and ginger, they are a must-order dim sum item.