Name: Baked Sesame Buns with Savory Minced Meat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1/4 cup sesame seeds (for topping); 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

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These baked sesame buns with savory minced meat are a comforting and satisfying treat that I like to make when I want something hearty but still homemade. Soft and fluffy on the inside, with a golden crust and a satisfying crunch from the sesame seeds, each bun is packed with juicy, umami-rich ground meat. Whether I serve them as a snack, a light lunch, or part of a larger meal, these buns always hit the spot.

Baked Sesame Buns with Savory Minced Meat

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup warm water

1 tablespoon sugar

1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

¼ cup milk

½ teaspoon salt

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

¼ cup sesame seeds (for topping)

For the minced meat filling:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)

Directions

I start by activating the yeast: I combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl and let it sit until it becomes frothy (about 5–10 minutes).

In a large mixing bowl, I mix flour, salt, and oil. Then I add the yeast mixture and milk, kneading everything together until I get a smooth, elastic dough—this usually takes around 8–10 minutes.

I cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

While the dough is rising, I prepare the filling. I heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until soft, then add the ground meat.

Once the meat is browned, I stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, pepper, and optional green onions. After cooking for another 2–3 minutes, I remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C).

Once the dough has risen, I punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions. I roll each one into a ball, then flatten it into a disc.

I spoon a tablespoon of the meat filling into each disc, fold the edges over, and pinch them closed to seal.

I place the buns seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

After brushing each bun with beaten egg and sprinkling sesame seeds on top, I bake them for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

I let the buns cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 8 buns

Calories per serving: Approximately 350 kcal

Variations

I sometimes use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter filling.

For a spicier version, I add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meat.

I like adding diced mushrooms or grated carrots to the filling for extra texture and nutrition.

If I’m feeling adventurous, I swap the sesame topping for a mix of black and white sesame seeds or even add a touch of grated cheese on top.

Storage/Reheating

Once cooled, I store leftover buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, I wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or microwave them for about 1 minute if I’m in a hurry.

FAQs

How do I know if my dough has risen enough?

I check if the dough has doubled in size and springs back slowly when I press it with a finger. If it bounces back quickly, it may need more time.

Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Yes, I can use pre-made dough in a pinch, especially pizza or dinner roll dough, but I prefer homemade for the best flavor and texture.

What can I serve with these buns?

I usually pair them with a light soup, salad, or some pickled vegetables to balance out the richness of the meat filling.

Can I make these buns vegetarian?

Absolutely. I replace the meat with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of both. I season the filling similarly to keep that savory depth.

Why is my dough not rising properly?

This usually happens when the yeast is expired or the water used was too hot or too cold. I always make sure the water is just warm to the touch (around 100–110°F).

Conclusion

These baked sesame buns with savory minced meat are one of my favorite go-to comfort recipes. They’re flavorful, easy to pack or serve, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m making them for a gathering or just want to have something filling on hand, they never disappoint. I always enjoy the process—and even more so, the delicious results.

Recipe:

Baked Sesame Buns with Savory Minced Meat

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 8 buns
Diet: Halal

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Description

Soft, golden baked sesame buns filled with juicy, savory minced meat. These Asian-inspired treats are fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and perfect for snacks, lunches, or casual dinners.

Instructions

Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, mix flour, salt, and vegetable oil. Add yeast mixture and milk, then knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes).
Cover dough with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Meanwhile, heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and green onions if using. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat and cool slightly.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then flatten into a disc.
Place 1 tablespoon of meat filling in the center of each disc. Fold edges over and pinch to seal.
Place buns seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds over each bun.
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.