Black Bean Mushroom Bao

Description

A pantry-driven vegetarian filling with strong umami from mushrooms and fermented black beans.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tbsp chopped scallion
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 12 frozen bao buns

Preparation

1. Cook mushrooms in oil until moisture evaporates and edges brown.
2. Add garlic, black beans, soy sauce, and cumin; mash lightly and cook 4 to 5 minutes.
3. Stir in scallion and cilantro.
4. Steam bao.

Assembly

1. Fill bao with mushroom-black bean mixture.
2. Finish with extra scallion.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with salsa verde.
• Add shredded lettuce for crunch.

Notes or Variations

• Mix in diced roasted poblano.
• Add queso fresco if not keeping vegan.