Lotus Seed Paste Bao

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix warm water with yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Pour the yeast mixture and oil into the flour mixture. Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms, about 8-10 minutes. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the lotus seed paste
   Drain the soaked lotus seeds and remove the green bitter core if present. Place the seeds in a pot with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes until soft. Drain well and process in a food processor until smooth. In a non-stick pan, combine the lotus paste, sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 15-20 minutes. Add vanilla extract, mix well, and let cool completely.
3. Shape the baos
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a 4-inch disc, keeping the center thicker than the edges. Place 1-2 tablespoons of lotus paste in the center of each disc. Gather the edges of the dough and pinch to seal completely. Place each bao seam-side down on a small square of parchment paper.
4. Second rise
   Arrange the shaped baos on a baking sheet, leaving space between each. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes until slightly puffy.
5. Steam the baos
   Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil. Working in batches if necessary, place the baos in the steamer, leaving space between each. Steam over high heat for 10-12 minutes until puffed and cooked through. Turn off the heat but do not open the steamer immediately. Let the baos rest in the residual steam for 2 minutes before removing.
6. Serve
   Carefully remove the baos from the steamer and serve warm. The baos can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat by steaming for 3-5 minutes.