Once, while wandering through a bustling local market, the enticing scent of freshly baked bread pulled me in like a magnet. As I made my way past vibrant stalls, I caught sight of a vendor proudly showcasing their beautiful pork floss and scallion buns—all perfectly golden and fluffy. Intrigued, I decided to recreate that culinary masterpiece at home: introducing my Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread!
This delectable treat isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delight for the senses. Imagine biting into a warm, pillowy-soft bun bursting with the savory goodness of scallions and the unique, slightly sweet flavor of pork floss. Perfectly versatile, these star-shaped buns can be served at any gathering or enjoyed as a comforting snack while watching your favorite show. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make, transforming your kitchen into a haven of homemade aromas and charm. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure together!
Why is Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread a Must-Try?
Unique Flavors: The blend of savory scallions and sweet pork floss creates a deliciously unexpected taste that will have you coming back for more.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can master this delightful recipe.
Visually Stunning: Shaping your buns into star forms adds an attractive touch, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Versatile Snack: Whether served warm or cold, these buns excel as appetizers, snacks, or a comforting breakfast option.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: You’ll impress family and friends with these restaurant-quality buns that taste homemade and authentic.
Don’t miss the chance to elevate your cooking with this scrumptious recipe!
Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread Ingredients
For the Dough
• ¾ cup (180 g) water – Essential for hydrating the dough and creating the perfect texture.
• ¼ cup (34 g) bread flour – Helps create the tangzhong for an ultra-soft bun.
• 1 cup (250 g) warm milk (100-105°F or 38°C) – Activates the yeast, contributing to the dough’s richness.
• 1 tablespoon (13 g) granulated sugar – Balances the savory flavors and feeds the yeast.
• 1 tablespoon (10 g) instant yeast or active dry – Critical for making the buns light and fluffy.
• 4 cups (543 g) bread flour – Forms the primary structure of our star bread.
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt – Enhances flavors and strengthens the dough.
• 1 large egg, room temperature – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
• 5 tablespoons (70 g) unsalted butter, room temperature – Gives a wonderfully tender texture.
For the Filling
• 1 ½ cups (120 g) scallion, thinly sliced – Adds a fresh, savory kick that complements the pork floss.
• 1 cup (85 g) pork floss – The star ingredient that brings unique flavor and texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Adjusts the filling’s flavor to perfection.
• 3 ½ tablespoons toasted sesame oil – Infuses a nutty aroma that enhances the filling.
For the Topping
• 1 large egg – Used for the egg wash, giving our buns a beautiful golden color.
• 1 tablespoon milk – Combines with the egg for a lovely sheen.
• Toasted sesame seeds – These add a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the star bread.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create the enchanting Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread that will steal the show at your next meal!
How to Make Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread
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Prepare the Tangzhong: In a saucepan, mix the water and bread flour. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Set it aside to cool completely.
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Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is activated.
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Mix the Dough: Add the cooled tangzhong, bread flour, salt, egg, and unsalted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir together until the ingredients form a cohesive dough.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. It should become smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
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Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the scallions, pork floss, salt, and toasted sesame oil. This savory filling will add incredible flavor to your buns!
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Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into equal pieces, then roll each piece into a flat circle about 4-5 inches wide.
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Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to seal it, and shape into your desired star form—let your creativity shine!
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Final Rise: Arrange the shaped buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffed.
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Preheat the Oven: While your buns are rising, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture gently over each bun for a beautiful golden finish.
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Bake the Buns: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving, then garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
Optional: Serve warm for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pork Floss and Scallion Star Breads are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough and fill it up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape the buns, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This helps develop flavors while keeping them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the buns sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly, then proceed with the egg wash and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, fluffy buns ready with minimal effort, making dinner a delightful treat!
What to Serve with Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread?
Indulge in a complete culinary experience that harmonizes flavors and textures while delighting your senses.
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Crispy Asian Salad: The crunch of fresh vegetables and zesty dressing contrasts beautifully with the fluffy buns, adding refreshment to each bite.
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Soy Sauce Dipping Bowl: A savory soy sauce mixture for dipping elevates the taste experience and adds a touch of umami to every bun.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: The sweetness of this sauce beautifully balances the savory pork floss, offering a perfect dipping contrast.
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Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide a nutritious snack that pairs well with the richness of the star bread.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup completes the meal, offering warmth and depth to balance the fluffy texture of the buns.
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Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice complements the flavors, making for a satisfying and comforting side that rounds out your meal.
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Ginger Lemonade: This refreshing drink with its zingy, sweet-tart notes wonderfully complements the aromatic spices in the buns, keeping the meal light and invigorating.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet delicacy enhances your dining experience with its delightful tropical flavors, making for a perfect sweet end to the meal.
Pork Floss Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Replace pork floss with mushroom floss or a medley of sautéed mushrooms and tofu for a savory vegetarian delight.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for a gluten-free version that’s equally delicious and fluffy. Just make sure to add a little xanthan gum for structure.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dollop of sriracha to the filling for an exciting heat that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pork floss.
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Cheesy Twist: Incorporate shredded cheese into the filling for a rich, gooey surprise in every bite. Cheddar or mozzarella both work splendidly here!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley with the scallions to brighten the flavor profile of the filling wonderfully.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a hint of honey over the filling to introduce a sweet contrast that enhances the pork floss without overpowering.
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Bacon Bits: Swap out some of the pork floss for cooked, crumbled bacon for an added crunch and tantalizing smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews into the filling for a delightful textural contrast and extra flavor kick!
Experimenting with these variations will not only excite your palate but may even lead to your new favorite version of this beloved star bread!
How to Store and Freeze Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread
Fridge: Store leftover buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cooled bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating: To enjoy your Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread, reheat frozen buns in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warm and fluffy.
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the buns within the day, simply keep them covered at room temperature for up to 8 hours, keeping their delightful softness intact.
Expert Tips for Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread
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Perfect Dough Texture: Use room temperature ingredients like milk and egg, which help ensure a smooth dough that rises beautifully and creates those light, fluffy buns.
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Watch the Yeast: Ensure your water and milk are warm (100-105°F or 38°C) but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Foaming after 5-10 minutes means it’s ready to go!
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Kneading Matters: Knead the dough thoroughly for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing the gluten structure that gives your buns their wonderful texture.
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Creative Shapes: Don’t hesitate to play with the shapes of your buns! Making star-shaped buns not only looks impressive but also offers an interactive baking experience for family and friends.
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Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on your buns towards the end of baking. They should be golden brown; if you allow them to bake too long, they can become dry. Your perfect Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread awaits!
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Cool before Serving: Let the buns cool slightly before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but makes them easier to handle!
Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select scallions for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking scallions, look for fresh, crisp green tops without any wilting or browning. The white bottoms should be firm and free of slimy or dark spots. Choose scallions that have a vibrant color and smell fragrant; these will provide the best flavor for your Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread.
How should I store leftover Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread?
To keep your buns fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve them longer, place them in a freezer-safe bag or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, which keeps them good for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy them even after they’ve left the oven!
Can I freeze Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze your buns, make sure they are completely cooled down. Wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They’ll keep their quality for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until they’re nice and fluffy again.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Don’t fret! If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast or improper temperatures. Ensure your warm milk is between 100-105°F (38°C). If you suspect your yeast is the issue, try mixing a teaspoon of sugar with it in warm water—it should bubble within 5-10 minutes. If it doesn’t, your yeast may be bad. Make sure to also knead your dough thoroughly to develop the gluten for better rise!
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Absolutely! If you’re serving Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread to guests with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that this recipe contains gluten, dairy (from the milk and butter), and eggs. For a gluten-free alternative, consider using a gluten-free flour blend, and you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative to accommodate those with dairy allergies.
Pork Floss and Scallion Star Bread That Steals the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Tangzhong: In a saucepan, mix the water and bread flour. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Set it aside to cool completely.
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is activated.
- Mix the Dough: Add the cooled tangzhong, bread flour, salt, egg, and unsalted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir together until the ingredients form a cohesive dough.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. It should become smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the scallions, pork floss, salt, and toasted sesame oil. This savory filling will add incredible flavor to your buns!
- Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into equal pieces, then roll each piece into a flat circle about 4-5 inches wide.
- Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to seal it, and shape into your desired star form—let your creativity shine!
- Final Rise: Arrange the shaped buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat the Oven: While your buns are rising, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture gently over each bun for a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake the Buns: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving, then garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch.