Hunan-Inspired Steamed Fan Breads

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

Begin by mixing the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sugar, and baking powder directly on your work surface. Make a well in the center of this mixture.

2. Add Milk

Gradually add the lukewarm milk to the well, mixing it with your fingers until the milk is fully absorbed into the flour mixture.

3. Add Water

Now, add the lukewarm water in the same manner, ensuring it is well incorporated.

4. Add Lard

Add the lard to the mixture. Continue mixing with your hands until the fat is thoroughly blended into the dough, resulting in a cohesive mixture.

5. Knead Dough

After mixing, knead the dough using your hands and a dough scraper if needed. Knead for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, until the dough becomes elastic and smooth.

6. Rest Dough

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for one hour.

7. Prepare Parchment Squares

While the dough is resting, prepare thirty 2.5-inch squares of parchment paper.

8. Shape Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal logs. Cut each log into 15 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it and shape it into a small triangle. Using a dinner fork, press lightly on the triangle to create a fan pattern.

9. Steam Breads

Place each shaped dough piece on a parchment square. Arrange the dough fans in bamboo steamers, making sure they have enough space to expand. Steam the breads for 10 to 12 minutes until they are puffed and cooked through.

10. Serve

Once steamed, carefully remove the fan breads from the steamers and serve them warm.