Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy bread that's infused with the delicate, earthy essence of green tea - a treat that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of Asian cuisine! This Green Tea Steam Bread is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that combines traditional steaming techniques with the sophisticated flavor of matcha. Whether you're a baking enthusiast or someone looking to explore exotic flavors, this recipe promises to revolutionize your bread-making experience with its stunning green hue and incredible texture that will leave your family and friends absolutely amazed!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons green tea powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, green tea powder, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the green tea powder.
- Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients while stirring. Mix until a soft, sticky dough forms. The consistency should be slightly wetter than traditional bread dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, with a distinctive green tea color.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 45-60 minutes or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball.
- Prepare a steamer by lining the steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- Place the dough balls in the steamer, leaving enough space between them for expansion. Cover and let them rest for an additional 15-20 minutes to prove.
- Fill the steamer base with water and bring to a rolling boil. Carefully place the steamer basket with the dough balls on top.
- Steam the bread for 15-18 minutes on high heat. Avoid lifting the lid during steaming to maintain consistent steam and temperature.
- After steaming, turn off the heat but keep the lid closed for an additional 3-5 minutes to prevent sudden temperature changes.
- Carefully remove the steamed bread from the steamer and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm as a light breakfast or snack. The bread can be enjoyed plain or with a light spread of butter or jam.
Tips
- Use high-quality green tea powder (matcha) for the most vibrant color and authentic flavor.
- Ensure your water is warm but not hot when mixing the dough to activate the yeast correctly.
- The dough should be slightly sticky - don't be tempted to add too much extra flour.
- Create a warm, draft-free environment for rising by placing the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on.
- Check your steamer water levels to maintain consistent steam throughout cooking.
- Do not open the steamer lid during cooking to prevent temperature fluctuations that can affect bread texture.
- Let the bread rest after steaming to allow the internal moisture to distribute evenly.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, or store in an airtight container for up to two days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
