When it comes to comfort food, few things can match the satisfaction of biting into warm, crispy cabbage and noodle stuffed buns. These pan-fried buns offer the perfect balance of a golden, crunchy exterior and a flavorful, hearty filling. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea or an exciting new airfryer recept to try, this dish is a must-try for food lovers.
A Quick Look at the Cooking Background
Stuffed buns have a rich history in Asian cuisine, from soft steamed baozi to crispy, pan-fried buns found in many street markets. While fillings can range from meat to vegetables, the combination of cabbage and noodles provides a satisfying texture and deep umami flavor. Inspired by dishes like mapo tofu, this recipe incorporates bold seasonings to enhance the taste of the filling.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 2 cups finely chopped crispy cabbage
- 1 cup cooked noodles (thin wheat noodles work best)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ¼ cup water (for steaming while pan frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and oil, then knead into a soft dough. Cover and let it rise for an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a pan, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add crispy cabbage, cooked noodles, soy sauce, white pepper, and chili flakes. Stir well and cook for 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in green onions. Let the filling cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Buns
Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Roll each piece into a circle, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and seal the edges by pinching them together. Let the buns rest for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Buns
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the buns seam-side down and fry until golden brown. Add water to the pan, cover, and let steam for 5–7 minutes until fully cooked. For a healthier alternative, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serving Suggestions
These fried buns are best enjoyed hot, served with soy sauce or a spicy dipping sauce. Pair them with a bowl of mapo tofu for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
These crispy cabbage and noodle stuffed buns are perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack, side dish, or main course. Try them today and enjoy a delicious homemade take on pan-fried buns!
