Nikuman (Steamed Beef Buns)

Nikuman, also known as steamed beef buns, is a popular Japanese snack that has a long history and deep cultural significance. These delicious buns are a type of dim sum that originated in China and were introduced to Japan in the 19th century. Nikuman is a beloved street food and can be found in convenience stores, food stalls, and restaurants throughout Japan.

Nikuman (Steamed Beef Buns)
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Prep Time:

1 hr

Cook Time:

50 mins

Additional Time:

30 mins

Total Time:

2 hrs 20 mins

Servings:

6

Yield:

6 servings

Ingredients

1 cup milk
½ cup white sugar
1 (16-ounce bag) steamed bun flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
½ cup diced shiitake mushroom caps
1 stalk green onion, diced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 pinch ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Mix milk and sugar for dough together in a bowl. Pour bun flour into another bowl and add gradually the milk mixture, stirring with a spatula.

Step 2

Form the dough into a ball and knead with your hands for about 20 minutes. Add olive oil and knead for 10 minutes more.

Step 3

Transfer dough to a dry bowl, cover with a towel, and let rest for 30 minutes.

Step 4

Combine beef, mushrooms, green onions, cornstarch, sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, five-spice powder, and pepper in a bowl with your hands until thoroughly mixed. Form the filling into 12 equally sized meatballs.

Step 5

Roll dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece out with a rolling pin to a circle, no more than 5 inches in diameter.

Step 6

Cover each meatball with a dough circle, pinching the edges to close.

Step 7

Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil. Add beef buns, working in batches as needed, cover, and steam until meat is no longer pink, about 45 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

263

Calories

13g

Fat

22g

Carbs

15g

Protein

Complement

The bun is made from a soft, fluffy dough that is filled with a savory, seasoned mixture of ground beef, onions, and other ingredients. The bun is then steamed to perfection, resulting in a warm, flavorful snack that is perfect for any time of day. Nikuman is often enjoyed during the colder months, as its warm and comforting nature makes it a popular choice during the winter. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack on the go or as part of a larger meal, Nikuman is a beloved and iconic dish in Japanese cuisine. Its popularity has even spread to other countries, where it is enjoyed as a delicious and satisfying treat.