Manapua Recipe (Hawaiian Steamed Pork Buns)

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water or milk
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 cups chopped cooked char siu-style pork or savory pork filling
• Parchment squares, for steaming

Steps

1. Mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add warm water or milk and oil, then knead into a smooth dough.
3. Cover and let the dough rise until puffy.
4. Divide the dough into portions and flatten each piece.
5. Add pork filling to the center of each piece and seal the dough around it.
6. Place each bun on parchment and let rest briefly.
7. Steam until the buns are fluffy and cooked through.

Nutrition

This page includes a per-serving nutrition table below the main content so readers can scan calories, macros, and key nutrition details without leaving the recipe.

Tips And Substitutions

Helpful tips

• Let the dough rise until soft and airy before filling.
• Do not overfill the buns or they can split during steaming.
• Leave space between buns in the steamer so they expand cleanly.

Substitutions and variations

• Use char siu-style pork, shredded pork, or another savory filling.
• Steam for the softest texture, or bake if you prefer a browned bun.
• Serve with plate-lunch sides or as a snack on its own.