Steamed Japanese Pork Buns: A Family Favorite!

Name: Steamed Japanese Pork Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 2 tsp sugar; 2/3 cup warm water; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1/2 pound ground pork or beef (cooked); 1 1/2 cups cabbage (finely chopped); 4 green onions (chopped); 1/2 Tbsp garlic (minced); 1/8 tsp dried ginger; A dash of pepper; 3 tsp soy sauce; 1/4 tsp sugar; 1 Tbsp rice wine vinegar; 1/2 tsp sesame oil

Posted on February 17, 2026

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This Steamed Japanese Pork Buns recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and it’s a quick and easy way to whip up a weeknight dinner that your family will love! These buns are packed with tons of flavor and can be easily customized to suit your taste, perfect for those times you need to use what you have on hand. Honestly, it’s a great ‘clean out the fridge’ meal too!

Ingredient Breakdown

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients that make this recipe such a hit!

Dough Ingredients

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast: This is our rising hero! You could use instant yeast if you prefer.
2 tsp sugar: Helps the yeast to bloom.
2/3 cup warm water: Just warm enough to activate the yeast.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for our lovely, fluffy buns.
1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds a little extra lift.
1/2 tsp salt: A couple pinches to enhance flavors.
1 Tbsp olive oil: For richness.

Filling Ingredients

1/2 pound ground pork or beef (cooked): This is where the main flavor comes from.
1 1/2 cups cabbage (finely chopped): Adds crunch and sweetness.
4 green onions (chopped): For a fresh kick.
1/2 Tbsp garlic (minced): Because garlic makes everything better!
1/8 tsp dried ginger: Just a pinch for warmth.
A dash of pepper: Spice it up a notch!
3 tsp soy sauce: For that umami goodness.
1/4 tsp sugar: To balance flavors.
1 Tbsp rice wine vinegar: Adds a nice tang.
1/2 tsp sesame oil: The finishing touch for that nutty flavor.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Proof the Yeast : In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it stand for about 5–10 minutes until it’s foamy at the top. That’s the good stuff!
Make the Dough : In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Once the yeast is ready, mix it into the dry ingredients along with the olive oil. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it feels slightly sticky and smooth.
First Rise : Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise until it has doubled in size, this usually takes about 1 hour.
Prepare the Filling : While the dough is rising, let’s whip up the filling! In a separate bowl, combine the cooked ground meat, chopped cabbage, green onions, minced garlic, ginger, pepper, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and the sugar. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly combined. Pop this mix in the refrigerator until the dough is ready.
Shape the Buns : Once your dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and let them rest for another 10 minutes.
Roll & Fill : Using a rolling pin, roll each ball flat into a circle. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each circle. Pinch the dough together to seal the bun, giving it a little twist in the center to secure everything nicely.
Second Rise : Place each bun on small squares of parchment paper or cupcake liners and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
Steam Away : Now, steam the buns for about 20 minutes until they’re fluffy and cooked through. Just imagine that aroma filling your kitchen, oh, it’s heavenly!

Why I Love This Recipe

This is my go-to recipe when I’m looking for something comforting and quick after a busy day. I’m a real sucker for anything warm and fluffy, and these buns definitely deliver. Plus, they’re such a crowd-pleaser! My kids love them, and the best part is that you can mix and match the filling based on what you have in your fridge. It makes it so versatile!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Hibachi Steak, my Easy Onigiri, or my Gyoza (Asian Dumplings)!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

Comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal.

Budget-Friendly

Uses affordable, everyday ingredients. Perfect for busy families where every dollar counts!

Customizable

You can use whatever ingredients you have on hand! Don’t have pork? Ground chicken or turkey works great too!

Comfort Food

Loaded with tons of flavor, these buns are basically a hug in food form, perfect for cozy dinners.

Meal Prep Friendly

These Steamed Japanese Pork Buns freeze well! Make a big batch and save some for those lazy nights.

Serving Suggestions

So, how to enjoy these scrumptious buns? They shine on their own, but if you want to kick it up a notch, serve them with:

A side of soy sauce or spicy chili sauce for dipping (YUM!).
A fresh salad for a bit of crunch and balance.

Storage: If you happen to have leftovers (which I doubt you will!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat your pork buns is in a steamer, just a few minutes will do the trick! If you’re short on time, a microwave works too, just wrap them in a damp paper towel to keep them moist.

Freezer Friendly: Yes! Seal them in a freezer bag before steaming and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just steam them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQ

Can I make these buns vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can create tons of delicious flavor that way!

What if I don’t have a steamer?
No worries! You can create a makeshift steamer using a pot and a heat-safe plate. Just add some water to the pot, bring it to a gentle boil, and place the plate with the buns on top, easy peasy!

How do I know when the buns are done?
They should be light and fluffy when you gently squeeze them. If they’re still doughy in the center, steam a little longer until they are fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! These Steamed Japanese Pork Buns are truly a go-to recipe that’s full of comfort and flavor. Honestly, I cannot wait for you to try it! They’re great for weeknight meals and special family gatherings alike, and each bite is about as good as it gets. And remember, trust your instincts when cooking! Food is all about playing and making it your own.

Thanks so much for stopping by today, and happy cooking! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.