Buuz

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buuz is a flavorful, savory dish that’s both hearty and simple to prepare. The combination of tender dough and a juicy, well-seasoned meat filling is perfect for those who enjoy dumplings or steamed foods. Buuz is versatile, allowing you to experiment with different fillings, such as lamb, pork, or vegetables. The steaming method gives the dumplings a soft, chewy texture, while the filling remains moist and flavorful. Perfect for both casual dinners and festive occasions, Buuz will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or mutton (or a mix of both)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for sautéing)

For steaming:

• Water for steaming (in a steamer or pot with a steamer basket)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water and knead until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be soft and elastic, but not sticky. Add the vegetable oil and knead for a few more minutes until fully combined. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling:

While the dough is resting, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, sautéed onion and garlic, soy sauce (if using), black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients. If the filling is too dry, you can add a little water to help bind it.

3. Shape the dumplings:

Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Roll each ball into a small circle, about 3 inches wide. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.

Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the dumpling, forming small pouches or half-moon shapes. You can pleat the edges for a traditional look or simply fold them over to seal. Be sure that the filling is securely enclosed.

4. Steam the Buuz:

Fill a steamer or large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Grease the steamer basket or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the prepared Buuz in the basket, leaving some space between each dumpling for expansion during steaming.

Steam the Buuz for 15-20 minutes or until the dough becomes tender and the filling is fully cooked. The Buuz should be soft and slightly translucent once done.

5. Serve:

Once the Buuz are steamed, carefully remove them from the steamer and serve hot. Buuz is traditionally enjoyed with a side of pickles or fresh vegetables. In Mongolia, it is commonly served with hot tea (especially milk tea) for a comforting, fulfilling meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Total time: 1.5 hours (including preparation and steaming time)

Variations

• Vegetarian Buuz: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat filling with mushrooms, cabbage, or tofu mixed with onions, garlic, and spices.

• Chicken Buuz: For a lighter version, use ground chicken instead of beef or mutton. Chicken Buuz is a popular variation in Mongolia, especially for those who prefer leaner meats.

• Spicy Buuz: Add chili flakes, minced chili peppers, or a little bit of chili paste to the filling for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Buuz can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the Buuz by steaming them again for 5-7 minutes or by microwaving them covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought dumpling wrappers for Buuz?

While traditional Buuz is made with homemade dough, you can substitute store-bought dumpling wrappers in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the size of the filling accordingly, as commercial wrappers are typically smaller.

2. Can I freeze Buuz?

Yes, Buuz freezes well. After shaping the dumplings, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the Buuz to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, steam them directly from the freezer for about 20-25 minutes.

3. What meat should I use for Buuz?

Traditionally, mutton or beef is used for Buuz, as it has the ideal fat content for a juicy filling. However, you can also use ground pork, chicken, or even a mixture of meats depending on your preference.

4. How do I make Buuz with a crispy bottom?

If you prefer a crispy bottom, you can pan-fry the Buuz after steaming them. Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the steamed Buuz for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

5. Can I use different spices for the filling?

Yes, you can adjust the spices in the filling to suit your taste. If you like, you can add cumin, coriander, ginger, or soy sauce to enhance the flavor profile.

6. How do I know when the Buuz are done steaming?

The Buuz are done when the dough is tender and slightly translucent, and the filling is cooked through. You can check by carefully cutting one open—if the filling is no longer pink and the dough is soft, the Buuz is ready.

7. How can I serve Buuz?

In Mongolia, Buuz is traditionally served with milk tea or hot tea. It can also be served with a side of pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber slices, or a simple salad for added freshness.

8. How do I make Buuz for a crowd?

To make Buuz for a larger group, simply double or triple the recipe. Prepare the dumplings in advance and steam them in batches. You can also freeze them ahead of time and steam them directly from the freezer.

9. Can Buuz be made without a steamer?

If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a heatproof dish or colander inside. Make sure the water doesn’t touch the Buuz, cover tightly, and steam as usual.

10. Can Buuz be served with something else besides tea?

Yes, while tea is the traditional beverage served with Buuz, you can also serve it with a light broth, a side of kimchi, or a fresh vegetable salad to balance out the richness of the meat.

Conclusion

Buuz is a delicious, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a hearty meal. These steamed dumplings, filled with flavorful meat and spices, offer a taste of Mongolia’s rich culinary tradition. Whether you serve them as a snack or as a full meal, Buuz is sure to be a hit with everyone who loves flavorful, satisfying food.