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Baked Manapua

Baked Manapua: A Comforting Hawaiian Treat Made Easy

Baked Manapua are delightful Hawaiian-style char siu buns that bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Proofing Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 package Frozen Dinner Roll Dough Homemade dough can also be used but takes longer.
For the Filling
  • 2 cups Char Siu Pork Can use leftovers or store-bought; chicken or tofu are great alternatives.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Can substitute with shallots or leeks.
  • 2 tablespoons Dark Brown Sugar Regular brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce Use vegetarian oyster sauce for a meat-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Olive oil can alter the flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch All-purpose flour or arrowroot starch can be used as a substitute.
Optional Glaze
  • 1 large Egg Beaten for egg wash; a milk wash can also work.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey For brushing, can substitute with maple syrup.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • large skillet
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Manapua
  1. Thaw the frozen dinner roll dough on a baking sheet for 3-4 hours. Cover with a towel.
  2. In a skillet, sauté chopped yellow onions in sesame oil until translucent. Add char siu pork and season. Stir in dark brown sugar, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Simmer until thickened.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Flatten dough into discs, add filling, and pinch edges to seal. Place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
  4. Cover the filled manapua with a towel and proof for about 30 minutes.
  5. Prepare egg wash and brush buns. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Cool for 5 minutes, optionally brush with honey, and serve warm with soy sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bunCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Ensure to pinch the edges tightly to prevent leaking and avoid opening the oven door while baking.

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