The Great Steamed Bun Debate: Cold vs. Hot Water – Master 3 Secrets for Perfect, Pillowy Buns!
For Shandong natives, the humble steamed bun transcends mere "staple food." It’s the bedrock of daily meals, the festive centerpiece during holidays, and a tangible taste of home that lingers in the hearts of those far away. The plump, towering "Gaozhuang-style" bun, yielding with a satisfyingly resilient pull when torn apart, releasing that pure, rich sweetness of wheat with each chew – this is culinary pride woven into the DNA of Shandong taste buds. Yet, many home cooks pour effort into kneading and proofing dough, only to lift the steamer lid to heartbreak: sunken, shriveled buns, dull grey skin, and a disappointingly coarse texture. That moment of defeat is enough to make you sigh directly into the pot lid!