Baby Manapua
Baby Manapua are adorable steamed or baked Chinese savory buns filled with seasoned Char Siu pork, perfect for snack time or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the Char Siu and green onions finely.
- Add ajinomoto and black pepper to the chopped meat.
- Add enough shoyu to moisten the meat mixture.
- Flatten each biscuit dough and place a teaspoon of the meat mixture in the center.
- Fold all four sides of the dough, pinching closed to seal the filling.
- Steam or bake the assembled manapua.
- If steaming, place wax paper under each manapua and apply a fingertip of oil on top before steaming.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a touch of garlic or ginger to the meat mixture. If you want a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of Char Siu. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms and diced bell peppers. Ensure the biscuit dough is rolled out evenly to avoid uneven cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baby manapua alongside a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil for extra flavor. They make a perfect appetizer or snack, and you can pair them with sides like Hot Chinese-Style Cabbage Slaw or a light Asian salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover manapua can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. This will help maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baby Manapua contains roughly 2 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the assembled manapua before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled manapua before steaming or baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, steam or bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of shoyu?
If you don't have shoyu, you can substitute it with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, so adjust the amount according to your taste.
How do I know when the manapua are done cooking?
If steaming, the manapua are done when they become slightly translucent and fluffy. If baking, they should be golden brown on top. Always check one by cutting it in half to ensure the filling is heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).