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What is Mantou?

Traditional Chinese Steamed Bread

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Miki Nagaya

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Mantou: Traditional Chinese Steamed Bread

Mantou is a traditional Chinese steamed bread that has been eaten for centuries.

It is made mainly from wheat flour, water, and yeast, and it is cooked by steaming rather than baking.

Unlike Western bread, mantou is usually plain and not sweet.

It is soft, fluffy, and mild in flavor, making it easy to combine with many different dishes.

In northern China, mantou is a staple food and is eaten almost every day.

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Recipe（Easy to make）

Ingredients

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  • 200 g medium-gluten flour
  • 100 g water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon oil

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Recipe（Easy to make）

  • Mix flour, sugar, salt, and dry yeast in a bowl.
  • Add water and oil, then mix until combined.
  • Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.

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  • Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour (until doubled in size).
  • Divide the dough into 6 pieces and shape into balls.
  • Let them rest for 15–20 minutes.

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  • Steam for 15 minutes.
  • Turn off the heat and let them sit for 5 minutes before opening the lid.

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Wait (Primary fermentation)

Wait (Secondary fermentation)

Steam

Mix

Cut

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Your mantou is ready!

Mantou is best eaten warm and fresh from the steamer.

In Northern China, it is often eaten instead of rice as a staple food.

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Because it has a simple and mild flavor, it goes well with many dishes. People often enjoy mantou with soup and dip it into the broth to absorb the flavor.

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Some people like to dip mantou in condensed milk for a sweet snack.

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Fried mantou is another popular option, with a crispy outside and a soft inside.

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The History of Mantou

Mantou has a rich history spanning over 1,800 years, with roots famously tracing back to the Three Kingdoms period.

In northern China, mantou is often eaten instead of rice.

It is commonly served with stir-fried dishes, braised meat, or soups.

Families may prepare mantou at home, or they may buy it fresh from local markets.

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Conclusion

Originally a staple of Northern China’s wheat-growing regions, these steamed buns are prized for their dense yet fluffy texture and a subtle, natural sweetness that develops with every chew.

Mantou represents everyday life and simple home cooking. It is not usually considered a luxury food, but it plays an important role in daily meals and family traditions.

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