24/7 Customer Support
Free returns
Same-day & Next-day Delivery
Quality Guaranteed
Unlock Your Welcome Offers: FREE Delivery | Up to 80% OFF | Free 30-day JoyPlus trial
Download the APP
There's a unique comfort in tearing into a warm, fluffy steamed bun. Whether you know them as mantou or bao, these soft pillows of dough are a staple of Chinese cuisine, perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack or as a side to a larger meal. However, making them from scratch is a time-consuming process. For those of us in the UK craving an authentic taste without the fuss, the freezer aisle is our greatest ally.
Finding high-quality frozen Chinese steamed buns that steam up to be soft, flavourful and just like the ones you remember can be a challenge. This guide is designed to help you navigate the options available when you want to buy steamed buns online. We'll walk through what to look for and share some of our top recommendations to help you stock your freezer with convenient and delicious choices.
Before adding to your basket, a few key points can help you select the perfect bun for your palate.
Chinese steamed buns come in a delightful variety. The most basic form is the mantou, which is a plain, slightly sweet steamed bread. These are incredibly versatile and pair well with savoury dishes. You'll also find flavoured mantou, such as brown sugar mantou or milk steamed buns, which are delicious on their own. Then there are more intricate shapes like scallion flower rolls (hua juan), which have savoury layers of spring onion woven through the dough.
The beauty of ready to steam buns is their convenience. Most require no defrosting. You simply place them in a steamer over boiling water for around 8-10 minutes. Always check the packaging for specific instructions. For a different texture, some buns, particularly savoury ones, can be pan-fried after steaming to create a crispy, golden-brown bottom.
As with any food purchase, it's wise to review the ingredient list, especially if you have allergies or dietary preferences. Key allergens like wheat and milk will be clearly marked on the packaging, in line with UK regulations. This ensures you know exactly what you're eating.
As your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I've filtered through the options to highlight a few standout products that deliver on convenience and flavour.
Why It Stands Out: These buns are made using traditional fermentation methods, giving them a wonderfully soft and layered texture. The use of pure brown sugar provides a gentle, caramel-like sweetness that isn't overpowering. The unique "hand-torn" quality means the layers peel apart easily, making them a satisfying treat to eat.
Pros:
Who is it for? Ideal for anyone who enjoys a subtly sweet breakfast or snack. Their fun, tearable layers also make them a hit with families and children.
Why It Stands Out: For those who prefer savoury flavours, these scallion flower rolls are an excellent choice. Each bun is layered with fragrant scallions and a hint of sesame oil, offering a classic savoury taste. The dough is fluffy and light, providing a perfect contrast to the aromatic filling. They are a fantastic accompaniment to soups, stews or simply enjoyed on their own.
Pros:
Who is it for? A great option for those looking for a savoury Chinese mantou to pair with their main meals or for anyone who loves the classic taste of scallion bread.
Why It Stands Out: These milk steamed buns offer a comforting, creamy flavour thanks to the addition of milk powder in the dough. The result is an exceptionally soft texture and a rich milky aroma when steamed. Their gentle sweetness makes them a versatile choice, suitable for breakfast with a spread of butter or as a plain side to balance a spicy dish.
Pros:
Who is it for? Perfect for families and individuals who appreciate a simple, comforting staple. Their mild flavour makes them a fantastic introduction to frozen mantou.
Our recommendations feature some of the most popular flavours, but the world of steamed buns is vast. If you're looking for filled buns (baozi) or other types of Asian frozen food UK, there are many more varieties to discover.
To see what else is available, we invite you to explore our full range of Chinese steamed dough products.
The most common and effective method is steaming. You do not need to thaw the buns. Simply place them in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper over a pot of boiling water. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until they are hot, fluffy and fully cooked through.
The main difference is the filling. Mantou are plain steamed buns, which can be white, wholewheat or flavoured with ingredients like brown sugar or milk mixed into the dough itself. Bao (or baozi) are buns that are filled with a savoury or sweet filling, such as barbecued pork, vegetables or red bean paste.
You can find a growing selection of authentic Anjoy steamed buns and other frozen Asian foods at online grocery stores that specialise in delivering these products directly to your home. This offers a convenient way to keep your freezer stocked with your favourite comfort foods.