Mandarin rolls, steamed Mandarin rolls, flower buns, or huā juǎn (Chinese: 花捲/卷) are a kind of steamed bun that originate from northern China but are popular throughout the country.[1] Like mantou, the mandarin roll is a dim sum dish and a staple of Chinese cuisine. Huā juǎn are named for their distinctive shape; the literal English translation of "huā juǎn" is "flower twist."[2]

Mandarin roll
Classic white mandarin rolls
Alternative namesSteamed Mandarin rolls
TypeBread
Place of originChina
Main ingredientswheat flour, yeast, water, salt, sugar, and baking soda
Mandarin roll
Chinese花捲/卷
Literal meaningflower roll
Alternative Chinese name
Chinese雲絲卷
Literal meaningcloud silk roll

The dough of the rolls is made of wheat flour, yeast, water, salt, sugar, and baking soda; sometimes soybean oil, vegetable shortening, and milk or milk powder are used.[1][3][4][5] After proofing, the stretchy and pliable dough is layered with scallions, sliced and twisted into layered knots, and steamed.[4] The result is a lightly oily roll with a pillowy, fluffy texture and pleasant chew.[5]

Mandarin rolls are usually savory, thanks to the use of scallions, salt, and occasional addition of Chinese five spice in the filling. However, sweet versions also exist. Because southern varieties of mandarin rolls are slightly sweet, they can be eaten plain. Sometimes they are eaten with sweetened condensed milk.

See also edit

References edit

  1. ^ a b Elaine (July 2, 2016). "Steamed Scallion Buns-Hua Juan". China Sichuan Food. ChinaSichuanFood.com. Retrieved May 27, 2023.
  2. ^ Huang, Joy (April 14, 2014). "Hua Juan (Steamed Scallion Buns)". Food52. Food52. Retrieved May 28, 2023.
  3. ^ Label on the package of mandarin rolls.
  4. ^ a b Leung, Kaitlin (March 8, 2022). "Hua Juan (Chinese Flower Rolls/Scallion Buns)". The Woks of Life. The Woks of Life. Retrieved May 27, 2023.
  5. ^ a b Hu, Sam (January 2022). "Steamed Scallion Buns". Ahead of Thyme. Ahead of Thyme Incorporated. Retrieved May 27, 2023.