Lotus Seed Paste Bun – Steamed buns filled with sweet lotus seed paste

Introduction

Lotus Seed Paste Buns, known as "莲蓉包" (Liánróng bāo) in Mandarin, are exquisite steamed buns characterized by their soft, fluffy texture and sweet lotus seed filling. These delicacies, often found in Chinese dim sum restaurants, embody the heart of Asian sweet cuisine. Priced typically between $2 to $5 per bun, they are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in cafés and bakeries such as DimDimSum Dim Sum Specialty Store in San Francisco or the renowned Tim Ho Wan chain. For those on a low-carb journey, our keto version offers a flavorful alternative without compromising on taste. Lotus Seed Paste Buns are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of culinary tradition that marries an array of textures and flavors, making both the traditional and keto versions a must-try!

Origin and Inspiration

Originating in ancient China, the lotus seed has been revered for centuries, symbolizing purity and spiritual enlightenment. Lotus Seed Paste, made from the seeds of the lotus flower, is a staple ingredient in many Asian desserts, deeply rooted in culinary history. Typically, these buns are served during festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival, where families gather and enjoy these sweet delicacies, reminiscent of happiness and togetherness.

Similar sweet buns can be found across Asia, such as Japan’s Anpan and Vietnam’s Bánh bao. However, the uniqueness of our Lotus Seed Paste Bun, whether traditional or in the keto adaptation, lies in its velvety filling that coats the palate and transports you to the gardens where lotus flowers flourish. The keto version cleverly replaces conventional flour with almond and coconut flour, providing a beautifully soft texture without the carbs, allowing flavors to shine through vibrantly.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Traditional Version
Calories: 190 kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 60mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g

Keto Version
Calories: 120 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g

Ingredients (2 Servings)

Shared Ingredients:

• 1 cup lotus seed paste (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional for keto)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup warm water
• Pinch of salt

Traditional Version:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp milk (optional for fluffiness)

Keto Version:

• 1 ½ cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1 tbsp erythritol
• 1 egg (to help bind the dough)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • For both versions, combine your flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. The aroma of flour will waft gently as you mix. In a separate bowl, whisk the warm water and oil (and milk for traditional)—pour this mixture gradually into the dry ingredients while stirring to form a soft dough.

2. Knead the Dough:

   • On a floured surface, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. As your hands engage with the dough, feel the transformation from rough to silky—a sensory delight!

3. Shape the Buns:

   • Divide the dough into equal parts. Flatten each piece into a disc, roughly 4 inches wide. Place a tablespoon of lotus seed paste in the center of each disc. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch to seal. Picture yourself wrapping a precious gift, the filling tucked away safely.

4. Steam the Buns:

   • Arrange the buns on a steamer lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have space to rise. Water should be boiling merrily in the pot as you transfer the steamer above it. Steam for about 15-20 minutes, filling the air with a sweet fragrance that dances in the kitchen.

5. Serve Hot:
   • Remove the buns from the steamer and allow them to cool for a minute before savoring. The first bite will reveal a cloud-like exterior and a luscious lotus filling—a taste as comforting as a warm hug.

What Does It Pair Well With?

• Traditional Pairings:

  • Pair these delightful buns with a cup of jasmine tea, allowing the floral notes to complement the sweetness of the filling.

• Keto-Friendly Pairings:
  • Enjoy them with unsweetened almond milk or a refreshing herbal tea to balance the metrics of flavor while staying on track with your diet.

What is the Shelf Life?

Lotus Seed Paste Buns are best enjoyed fresh to appreciate their texture. They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For freezing, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for about 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, steam gently to restore their original fluffiness.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes if you prefer a slightly different approach. Expect a firmer, more biscuit-like texture!

• Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 280°F (140°C) for a quick 10-12 minutes, ensuring a light browning that creates a crispy outside and soft inside.

Conclusion: Traditional and Keto Versions

Lotus Seed Paste Buns, whether traditionally made with all-purpose flour or cleverly adapted into a keto-friendly version with almond and coconut flour, add a touch of sweetness to any meal or snack. The soft, pillowy texture combined with the sweet velvety lotus seed filling makes these buns irresistible. Enjoy the flexibility of this dish and delight in the cultural experience it offers—truly, a comforting choice that transcends dietary preferences and fills the heart with happiness!