There’s nothing quite like the satisfying sound of a sizzling pan, especially when it’s filled with golden, crispy dumplings. On one particularly hectic weeknight, I found myself yearning for a comforting homemade meal that would transport me away from my usual fast-food routine. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Cheat Bao (Bun) — a delightful fusion of simplicity and flavor.
These dumplings are a hidden gem in the world of comfort food, combining tender dough with a savory filling featuring freshly chopped herbs and rich beef mince. The moment you bite into one, the perfect balance of textures and flavors unfolds as the juicy filling meets the soft, fluffy exterior. Trust me, they’re so incredible that you’ll want to make a batch for every potluck and family gathering.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply add a fun twist to your weeknight dinners, these dumplings offer easy preparation and endless versatility. Let’s dive into the world of Cheat Bao and create a meal that will awaken your taste buds and rekindle that joy for homemade goodness!
Why Love These Cheat Bao (Bun) Dumplings?
Deliciously satisfying: The combination of crispy bottoms and soft, chewy tops will make each bite a flavorful delight.
Quick to prepare: With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy these dumplings in just over half an hour!
Flavor-packed filling: The blend of beef, lemongrass, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste that you won’t forget.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for potlucks or gatherings, these dumplings are sure to please friends and family alike.
Versatile: Feel free to switch up the filling to cater to your cravings or dietary preferences.
Guilt-free indulgence: You’ll love knowing you’ve made a comforting meal from scratch, steering away from the usual fast-food temptations.
Cheat Bao (Bun) Ingredients
These Cheat Bao (Bun) Dumplings are not just delicious; they’re easy to whip up and full of enticing flavors!
For the Dough
- 200g self-raising flour – Perfect for achieving that fluffy texture in your dumplings.
- 180g greek yoghurt – Adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the dough beautifully.
For the Filling
- 400g beef mince (20% fat) – The fat content ensures a juicy filling that keeps every bite succulent.
- 1 lemongrass stalk – Infuses a fresh, citrusy note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 1 red onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the filling; finely chopping makes it blend seamlessly.
- 2 garlic cloves – A must for that aromatic punch; feel free to increase if you’re a garlic lover!
- Handful of basil – Fresh herbs offer a burst of flavor; swap for cilantro if you prefer.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds a lovely nuttiness, enhancing the overall taste of the filling.
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce – This seasoning brings umami that ties all flavors together.
- 2 teaspoons sugar – Balances the savoriness with a hint of sweetness, making your dumplings unforgettable.
- ½ tablespoon black pepper – A touch of heat that rounds out the filling’s flavor.
These ingredients blend harmoniously to create the mouthwatering Cheat Bao (Bun) experience you won’t want to miss!
How to Make Cheat Bao (Bun)
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Combine Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the self-raising flour with Greek yogurt. Use chopsticks or a wooden spoon to stir until just combined. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it’s bouncy and soft, then cover with cling film and let it rest for 10 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, gather all the filling ingredients—beef mince, lemongrass, onion, garlic, basil, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Stir gently with chopsticks or your hands, making sure everything is well mixed.
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Shape the Dough: Take the rested dough and pierce it in the middle with your finger. Shape it into a donut, then slice that donut into a log. Cut the log into 10 equal pieces, rolling each piece out into circular wrappers about ½ cm thick and 3 inches in diameter. Dust with extra flour to prevent sticking.
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Fill and Seal Wrappers: Place a spoonful of the delicious filling in the center of each wrapper. Seal the dumplings in an anticlockwise motion to ensure they are well closed. Repeat the process for all remaining wrappers.
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Steam the Dumplings: Arrange the dumplings on small squares of parchment paper and transfer them to your steamer. Steam for 10-15 minutes until cooked through and fluffy.
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Fry for Crispiness: Heat a pan over medium heat and drizzle in some oil. Once hot, add the steamed dumplings face up and fry for about 4 minutes, until the undersides are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the pan and serve warm.
Optional: Pair them with a soy dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheat Bao (Bun) Variations
Get creative with your dumplings and let your taste buds explore new flavors and textures!
- Vegetarian: Swap beef mince for a mix of chopped mushrooms and tofu, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped chilies or a dash of sriracha to the filling for those who love a bit of heat in every bite.
- Herb Burst: Experiment with herbs like cilantro or mint instead of basil, creating a vibrant, aromatic filling that’s refreshing and unique.
- Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or crab meat as a filling, paired with ginger and scallions for a coastal, savory option that’s delightfully different.
- Whole Wheat Dough: Substitute white flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version that enhances texture and adds extra nutrients.
- Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate a bit of cream cheese or shredded cheese into the filling for a creamy, indulgent twist in each dumpling.
- Sweet Treat: Try a dessert version with sweetened cream cheese and crushed berries, transforming your dumplings into a lovely sweet treat.
- Quinoa Filling: Make these dumplings healthier by using cooked quinoa mixed with your choice of vegetables, creating a hearty, protein-rich alternative.
Your cooking adventure awaits—don’t hesitate to explore these variations and make this recipe your own!
Expert Tips for Cheat Bao (Bun)
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Proper Dough Mixing: Ensure the self-raising flour and yogurt are fully combined to avoid any dryness in the dough. A well-mixed dough is crucial for tender dumplings.
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Don’t Overfill: When adding the filling, resist the urge to pack it too tightly. This avoids tearing the wrappers and allows for a perfect seal.
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Flour for Dusting: Always use extra flour when rolling out wrappers to prevent sticking. A sticky dough can lead to frustration and messy dumplings.
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Steam Time Matters: Steaming for exactly 10-15 minutes ensures they are fluffy, cooking them longer can result in a chewy texture. Keep an eye on your dumplings!
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Crispiness Balance: Fry the dumplings until golden brown to achieve that perfect crispy bottom, but don’t overdo it; burnt dumplings are not enjoyable!
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Versatile Fillings: Feel free to get creative with fillings like chicken, tofu, or vegetables if you want to switch up the Cheat Bao experience.
Storage Tips for Cheat Bao (Bun)
Room Temperature: Keep leftover dumplings at room temperature for up to 2 hours; avoid leaving them out longer to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store any uneaten dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for the best taste experience.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Cheat Bao individually on a parchment-lined tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 1 month for optimal flavor.
Reheating: To reheat frozen dumplings, steam them directly from the freezer for about 15-20 minutes or pan-fry until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheat Bao (Bun) dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough ingredients and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, preventing it from drying out. The filling can also be made ahead—just combine all ingredients in a separate container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, roll out the dough and fill the wrappers. Steam and fry the dumplings as instructed for delicious results that are just as fresh as if they were made on the spot. This way, you can effortlessly enjoy homemade dumplings even on your busiest nights!
What to Serve with Cheat Bao (Bun)?
Treat your taste buds to a delightful feast that complements the warm, crispy goodness of these dumplings.
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Soy Dipping Sauce: A classic companion that boosts the savory notes of the dumplings, adding a simple yet flavorful element to each bite.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls introduce a refreshing contrast, filled with vibrant veggies that enhance your meal’s color and texture.
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Garlic Fried Rice: This fragrant rice dish pairs perfectly with the beefy filling, offering a delightful way to soak up every flavor without overpowering.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: Tender, crisp bok choy brings a fresh, green component, balancing the richness of the dumplings and adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Spicy Kimchi: For those who crave a kick, adding kimchi will provide a bold, tangy flavor that complements the dumplings and keeps things exciting!
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A cool salad with a light dressing offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the warmth of the dumplings.
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Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: This fruity beverage quenches your thirst while adding just the right hint of sweetness to balance the savory dumplings.
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Mango Dessert Spring Rolls: For something sweet after your meal, these dessert spring rolls offer a fruity experience that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of your feast.
Cheat Bao (Bun) Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, especially for fresh herbs like basil, look for vibrant green leaves without any dark spots or wilting. For the lemongrass, choose stalks that are firm and have a nice citrus aroma. For the beef mince, opt for a bright red color with a bit of marbling for juiciness.
How should I store leftover Cheat Bao (Bun) dumplings?
After enjoying your Cheat Bao, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, I recommend reheating them in a steamer or a pan to keep that delightful crispy bottom!
Can I freeze Cheat Bao (Bun) dumplings?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place uncooked dumplings on a parchment-lined tray, making sure they’re not touching each other, and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, no need to thaw—just steam them straight from the freezer for an additional 5 minutes.
Why did my dumpling wrappers tear while sealing?
Very! If your dumpling wrappers tear, it’s often due to being overfilled. Make sure to use just the right amount of filling—about a spoonful—and seal gently. Additionally, ensuring your dough is well-floured while rolling will help prevent stickiness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have gluten sensitivities, consider substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend. For those with meat allergies or those following a vegetarian diet, feel free to use alternatives like mushrooms, tofu, or vegetables for the filling. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
How long should I knead the dough for the best texture?
For the perfect dough consistency, knead for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and bouncy. If you find it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much flour can result in dense dumplings. Listen to the dough—it should feel smooth and elastic when you’re done!
Cheat Bao Buns: Quick & Crispy Dumplings You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the self-raising flour with Greek yogurt in a large bowl. Stir until just combined. Knead for 5 minutes, cover, and rest for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, gather the filling ingredients and mix gently.
- Shape the rested dough into a log, cut it into 10 equal pieces, and roll into circular wrappers.
- Fill each wrapper with the filling and seal them.
- Steam the dumplings for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Fry steamed dumplings in a pan until golden brown and crispy.