Cook’s in the Kitchen: Bao Buns

“I absolutely love fresh steamed Bao buns. Now I’m a meat eater all day long but fresh shiitakes sautéed into these with pickled veggies are bright and vibrant and will absolutely wake your mouth up. “ - Executive Chef Michael Johnson 

INGREDIENTS: Pickled Veggies

·      1/4 cup water

·      1/4 cup rice vinegar

·      1 tablespoon organic granulated sugar

·      1/2 teaspoon salt

·      1/2 medium cucumber, julienne cut

·      1 medium carrot julienne cut

·      1 medium jalapeño pepper, sliced

For the Mushroom Filling:

·      1/3 cup soy sauce

·      2 tablespoons rice vinegar

·      2 tablespoons maple syrup

·      2 teaspoons sambal oelek, or to taste (optional)

·      2 teaspoons sesame oil

·      1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)

·      3 tablespoons canola oil (or high heat oil of choice)

·      1 pound shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced into thin strips

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare ingredients for Bao construction.

ADDITIONAL TOPPINGS:

·      10 tablespoons hoisin sauce

·      1/2 cup chopped peanuts

·      1/2 cup chopped scallions

·      1/2 cup fresh cilantro