In a bowl, combine water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to incorporate and set aside to activate.
Once the yeast has activated, add flour and onion powder and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until the consistency is smooth and elastic, and roll it into a ball. Cover the ball with a damp cloth for 40 minutes to allow the dough to rise.
Once the dough has risen, cut the ball into 8 pieces, rolling each piece into a ball. Cover the dough balls with the cloth again allowing them to rise.
Once the dough balls have risen, Use a rolling pin to roll them out into 7-9" disks.
Place a disk on a piece of parchment paper, brush the top side with oil, gently fold it in half, then place it in the steamer. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Steam the buns for 10 minutes.
Build your bao bun with the fillings of your choice, serve, and enjoy!
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Notes
Avoid overcrowding your steamer and allow enough room in between for each to rise during cooking without sticking to each other.
Resist the temptation to open the steamer's lid while cooking. This can cause temperature fluctuations and result in uneven cooking.
Allow bao buns to cool on a wire rack after steaming to maintain their shape.
Have patience. Making bao buns may require practice to perfect your technique, so don't be discouraged if your first attempts aren't perfect.