Bush Buns
Bush Buns are savory meat-filled dough pockets crispy-fried to golden perfection, combining flavorful beef and onion with a hearty, satisfying crunch perfect for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion together in a skillet.
- Add catsup, vinegar, celery seed, Worcestershire sauce, prepared mustard, salt, pepper, and MSG to the beef mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Prepare hot roll mix according to package directions.
- Divide the dough into 24 equal small balls.
- Flatten each dough ball and place one spoonful of the meat mixture in the center.
- Form the dough around the meat filling, sealing the seams tightly.
- Allow the filled dough balls to rise again.
- Deep-fry in hot Crisco at 360°F (182°C) for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain on absorbent paper.
- Serve immediately or reheat leftovers in the microwave.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, try adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat hot roll mix for a more nutritious dough. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste, especially if you enjoy spicier dishes. These Bush Buns make a great appetizer or party snack.
Serving Suggestions
These Bush Buns are best served warm and can be enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal. They pair well with a side salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks. For a complete dinner, consider serving them alongside hearty sides like Gram'S Meat Pie or Mom'S Beef And Vegetable Stew. A dipping sauce, such as barbecue or ranch, can also enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the buns in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. For extra crispiness, you can also reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bush Buns contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 filled dough balls before frying?
Yes, you can freeze the filled dough balls before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and fry as directed. This makes for a convenient snack option anytime.
What can I use instead of MSG?
If you prefer to avoid MSG, you can enhance the flavor with additional spices like garlic powder or onion powder. Alternatively, a splash of soy sauce can help achieve a similar umami taste without using MSG. Just be mindful of the salt content in your dish.
How can I make these buns vegetarian?
To make vegetarian versions of these buns, substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You can also add finely chopped mushrooms and spices to enhance the flavor. Adjust the seasonings to ensure they are well-seasoned and delicious.
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).