Vegetable Bao Buns

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add vegetable oil and warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the filling
   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cabbage, mushrooms, and carrots, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
3. Form the bao buns
   Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 4 inches in diameter, making the edges thinner than the center. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle. Gather the edges and pinch together at the top, twisting slightly to seal.
4. Rest before steaming
   Place each filled bun on a small square of parchment paper. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rest for 15 minutes to rise slightly.
5. Steam the buns
   Arrange the buns in a bamboo steamer or steamer basket, leaving about 2 inches between each bun as they will expand. Steam over simmering water for 12-15 minutes until puffy and cooked through. Remove from heat and serve hot.