Pan-Fried Scallion and Toasted Sesame Buns: A Crispy, Fluffy Delight

If you’re a fan of crispy-yet-fluffy buns packed with layers of flavor, Pan-Fried Scallion and Toasted Sesame Buns, also known as Hua Juan (花卷) or Flower Buns, are a must-try. These buns have a light and airy texture on the inside, a golden-brown crisp on the bottom, and a savory, aromatic filling of scallions, sesame seeds, and five-spice powder.

Unlike traditional steamed buns, these pan-fried delights bring together the best of both worlds: the softness of a steamed bun and the satisfying crunch of a crispy-bottomed dumpling. They are vegan-friendly, incredibly versatile, and easy to customize. Whether you serve them as a snack, side dish, or part of a larger meal, these buns are sure to impress.

In this article, we will explore the history of Hua Juan, expert tips for making the perfect batch, exciting variations, serving suggestions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

The Origins of Hua Juan (花卷) – The Beautifully Twisted Bun

Hua Juan, which translates to “flower roll” or “flower bun”, is a traditional Chinese steamed bun that gets its name from its distinctive twisted shape. These buns originated in Northern China, where wheat-based dishes like dumplings, noodles, and steamed buns are dietary staples. Unlike plain mantou (steamed bread), Hua Juan is layered with flavor, thanks to ingredients like scallions, sesame, and spices.

While steamed Hua Juan is the classic version, this pan-fried adaptation adds a delightful crispiness, making it even more appealing. Similar cooking techniques are used for Sheng Jian Bao (pan-fried soup dumplings), where a doughy bun is first pan-fried, then steamed to perfection.

This pan-fried variation has become popular in many Chinese and Taiwanese households, offering a crispy twist on a soft, pillowy favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Buns

1. Incredible Texture Contrast

• The crispy, golden-brown bottom gives way to a soft, airy interior, making each bite satisfying.

2. Packed with Flavor

• The combination of fresh scallions, nutty sesame seeds, and warm five-spice powder creates a deeply savory and aromatic experience.

3. Simple Yet Impressive

• While the twisted shaping technique might look complicated, it’s surprisingly easy to master. Plus, these buns look absolutely gorgeous on a plate.

4. Vegan and Customizable

• These buns are entirely plant-based, but they can be customized with additional fillings like mushrooms, tofu, or even chili oil for extra flavor.

5. A Perfect Side Dish or Snack

• Enjoy them on their own, with a dip, or alongside soups, stir-fries, and noodle dishes.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pan-Fried Scallion Buns

1. Mastering the Dough

• Use warm soy milk or water to activate the yeast properly. Cold liquid will slow the rise, while overly hot liquid can kill the yeast.
• Let the dough rest adequately—this helps develop gluten, making it easier to roll and shape.

2. Creating an Ultra-Fragrant Filling

• Toast the sesame seeds before using them. This enhances their nutty aroma and deepens their flavor.
• Heat the oil before mixing it with scallions to create a sizzling effect, which intensifies the oniony aroma.

3. Shaping the Buns Like a Pro

• Rolling out the dough evenly ensures that every bun has a consistent texture.
• Twisting the dough strips adds more layers, which means more spots for the filling to infuse its flavor.

4. The Secret to Perfect Pan-Frying

• Cook the buns in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
• After pan-frying the bottoms, add a splash of water and cover the pan—this steaming step ensures the buns cook through without burning.

Delicious Variations to Try

1. Spicy Sichuan-Style Buns

• Add chili oil and crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a fiery kick.

2. Garlic & Ginger Infused Buns

• Mix finely minced garlic and ginger into the scallion-sesame filling for an extra punch of flavor.

3. Cheesy Scallion Buns

• Sprinkle a layer of vegan cheese or grated parmesan over the filling before rolling the buns.

4. Mushroom & Scallion Buns

• Sauté finely chopped shiitake mushrooms and mix them with the scallions for an earthy umami flavor.

5. Sweet-Savory Honey Glazed Buns

• After frying, brush the buns with a light honey-soy glaze for a subtle sweetness.

How to Serve Pan-Fried Scallion Buns

These buns are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

1. Classic Style

• Eat them as they are, straight from the pan, while they’re crispy and warm.

2. Dipping Sauce Pairings

• Serve with a soy sauce-vinegar dip, chili oil, or a sesame-ginger dressing.

3. As a Side Dish

• Pair with hot and sour soup, miso soup, or noodle stir-fries.

4. Breakfast or Tea-Time Snack

• Enjoy these buns with a cup of green tea, oolong, or a warm soy milk drink.

5. Sandwich It

• Slice the bun in half and fill it with grilled tofu, avocado, or pickled vegetables for a mini scallion bun sandwich.

Aromatic & Crispy: Ingredients

For the Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Dry yeast
• Warm soy milk
• Neutral oil

For the Filling

• Scallions, finely chopped
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Five-spice powder
• Salt
• Hot oil

For Pan-Frying

• Neutral oil
• Water for steaming

From Dough to Perfection: Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the dry ingredients, then gradually add warm soy milk and oil.
2. Knead into a smooth, elastic dough and let it rest for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Combine chopped scallions, sesame seeds, five-spice powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Pour in hot oil, mix well, and set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

1. Roll out the dough into a thin rectangular sheet.
2. Spread the filling evenly across the surface.
3. Slice into strips, twist, and shape them into flower-like buns.

Step 4: Pan-Fry and Steam

1. Heat oil in a non-stick pan and add the buns, cooking until the bottoms turn golden brown.
2. Pour in water and cover the pan, allowing the buns to steam until the water evaporates.
3. Remove the lid and cook for another minute or two to crisp up the bottoms.

A Bite of Goodness: Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 bun
• Calories: 66 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 7g
• Sodium: 194mg
• Fiber: 1g

These Pan-Fried Scallion and Sesame Buns are a delightful fusion of soft, fluffy dough and crispy, aromatic flavors. They pair well with soups, stir-fries, or even a simple dipping sauce. Enjoy them hot and fresh for the ultimate experience!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Steam These Buns Instead of Pan-Frying?

Yes! To make traditional steamed Hua Juan, simply place them in a bamboo steamer or steaming basket for 10-12 minutes instead of pan-frying.

2. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the cooked buns for up to 2 months and steam or pan-fry to reheat.
• Reheating: Pan-fry again with a splash of water to bring back the crispy texture, or microwave with a damp towel to retain moisture.

3. Can I Use Black Sesame Seeds Instead of White?

Yes! Black sesame seeds have a slightly stronger, earthier flavor, but they work just as well.

4. What’s the Best Flour to Use?

All-purpose flour works best, but you can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.

5. Can I Prepare the Dough in Advance?

Absolutely! Refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before rolling and shaping.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try These Buns

Pan-Fried Scallion and Toasted Sesame Buns offer the perfect balance of crispy, soft, and aromatic flavors in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or simply love experimenting with homemade bread, these buns are a must-try.

Not only are they vegan and versatile, but they also provide a wonderful opportunity to practice traditional bun-making techniques. The twisting and shaping process may take a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making bakery-quality buns at home.

If you’re looking for a savory, satisfying, and slightly indulgent treat, these buns are the perfect addition to your recipe collection. Make a batch today and enjoy them fresh, crispy, and full of delicious scallion-sesame goodness!

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