BaoZi (Chinese Steamed Buns)

1 dozen buns
3 cups bread flour
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons yeast
3/4 cup water
1 tablespoon peanut or vegetable oil
1 large egg

Filling: Red Bean, Pork or Chicken

optional: sesame seeds

Mix all bread ingredients. Let rise about an hour, punch down, and let rise again until doubled in bulk.

Knead. Divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll into 4 inch round. Place the dough in the palm of your hand and fill with 1 tablespoon filling. Gather up the sides around the filling and twist the dough to seal.

Place, twisted side down, on a piece of aluminum foil or wax paper. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place about 15 minutes.

Place the buns on the foil on a steamer rack over boiling water. Leave at least 1 inch free space between the buns. Cover and steam 15-18 minutes, until done.

Sprinkle each bun with sesame seeds if desired