Strictly Dumpling Season 1 Episode 1 How to Make Steamed Chinese Flower Buns

This episode of Strictly Dumpling, titled "How to Make Steamed Chinese Flower Buns," is the first in the show's first season. Hosted by food enthusiast Mike Chen, the episode takes viewers through the process of making one of China's most popular and beloved snacks: steamed buns, also known as baozi.

Chen begins the episode by introducing viewers to the process of making the dough for the buns, which requires just a handful of simple ingredients, including flour, yeast, sugar, and water. He then demonstrates how to knead the dough by hand, explaining that the key is to work the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth.

Once the dough has risen, Chen moves on to the process of shaping the buns. He explains that there are several different styles of baozi, including those that are filled with savory meats and those that are filled with sweet bean paste. In this episode, however, he focuses on what are known as "flower buns," a style of baozi that is shaped to resemble a blooming flower.

To create the flower buns, Chen first rolls out the dough into a long, flat strip. He then folds the strip in half and cuts it into equal-sized pieces, which he rolls into balls. Each ball is then flattened and folded in a way that creates several layers, giving the bun its distinctive petal-like appearance.

Once the buns have been shaped, Chen moves on to the final step: steaming. He demonstrates how to steam the buns using a traditional bamboo steamer, which is placed over a pot of boiling water. The buns are steamed for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until they have puffed up and become fluffy and tender.

Throughout the episode, Chen shares tips and tricks for getting the perfect results, from kneading the dough to creating the intricate flower-shape of the buns. He also shares some of the cultural history behind baozi, explaining that they have been a staple food in China for thousands of years and are enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Overall, this episode of Strictly Dumpling offers a fun and informative look at the process of making one of China's most beloved snacks. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Chen's step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow along and create your own delicious steamed buns. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn how to make your own amazing flower buns with Strictly Dumpling!