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Bao Beef Buns – Easy Steamed Beef Bao

Bao Beef Buns are soft steamed buns filled with savory hoisin beef and greens.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Main Dish / Appetizer
Cuisine Asian-Inspired

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces cooked beef pot roast chopped or shredded
  • 1 cup chopped spinach green onions, or Swiss chard
  • 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
  • 3 cans refrigerated buttermilk biscuits 10 biscuits each

Instructions
 

Prepare the Beef Filling

  • Chop or shred the cooked beef pot roast and place it in a large microwave-safe dish.
  • Cover loosely and microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in chopped spinach (or green onions/Swiss chard) and hoisin sauce.
  • Microwave again briefly until the sauce thickens slightly and evenly coats the beef.
  • Set aside to cool slightly while preparing the buns.

Prepare the Steamer

  • Line a stovetop steamer basket with parchment paper, cutting a small hole in the center for steam circulation.
  • Add water to the steamer pot, ensuring the water level is below the basket.
  • Bring water to a gentle boil.
  • Tip: If you don’t have a steamer, use a folding steamer basket inside a large saucepan. Lettuce leaves can substitute for parchment paper if needed.

Assemble the Bao Beef Buns

  • Separate biscuit dough and place on a cutting board.
  • Flatten each biscuit into a 3-inch square, pressing out the corners.
  • Place about 1 tablespoon of beef filling in the center.
  • Bring two opposite corners up over the filling and pinch together.
  • Bring the remaining two corners up and pinch all seams tightly to seal.
  • Turn buns seam-side down while waiting to steam.

Steam the Buns

  • Place buns in the steamer basket, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
  • Cover and steam for 7 minutes, or until dough reaches 190°F and filling reaches 165°F.
  • Carefully remove with tongs and allow to cool slightly.
  • Repeat with remaining buns.
  • Serve Bao Beef Buns warm with extra hoisin sauce if desired.

Notes

  • Use leftover roast beef or shredded beef brisket.