I’ve fond memories of black sesame buns served at yum cha in Hong Kong, but it’s not something that I’ve seen in Australia. But they do sell them at the Asian grocer as this Yaa Gang Sesame Steamed Buns attests.
These were around 5 cm in diameter, with a white coloured bread wrapped around a black sesame centre.
They’re prepared by steaming (15 minutes from frozen), microwaving (1 minute on high) or deep frying (until golden brown at 190°C).
These buns have a very dense mouthfeel, with the bread having none of that fluffy lightness that makes steamed buns a delight. Neither does the black sesame centre redeem its density, as the paste itself is very grainy and dry. Overall, while their smaller size makes them bite-size snacks, it’s difficult to get past their poor texture.
This Yaa Fang Sesame Steamed Buns contained 400 g or 16 pieces. It was produced in Taiwan and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2018.