Lotus Paste Pau
Lunch • Singapore
How to Make Lotus Paste Pau (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Lotus Paste Pau is a beloved snack and lunch option in Singapore, found everywhere from bustling hawker centres to nostalgic kopitiams. These soft, fluffy steamed buns with silky-smooth lotus seed paste are a staple in the local Chinese community, often enjoyed alongside a cup of kopi or teh during midday breaks. The delicate balance of subtle sweetness and pillowy pau dough makes it a comforting choice for both young and old. Rooted in Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, Lotus Paste Pau showcases the island’s unique blend of tradition and innovation. Local bakers and ‘pau aunties’ have embraced healthier tweaks, using less sugar and lighter flours to suit modern lifestyles. This dish is a symbol of heritage and fusion, as it adapts time-honoured recipes for today’s health-conscious foodies. Whether you’re grabbing it on the go or making it at home for lunch, Lotus Paste Pau embodies the heart of Singapore’s multicultural food scene.
Ingredients(for 2 medium paus per serving)
- 100g Lotus seed paste (low sugar, available at wet market)
- 150g All-purpose flour (pau flour or plain flour)
- 1/2 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Instant dry yeast
- 1 tbsp Sugar (can use brown sugar for healthier option)
- 70ml Warm water
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil (sunflower or canola)
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 4 pieces Baking paper squares (for steaming paus)
Instructions
- 1
Dissolve sugar and instant yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
5 minutes
Use water at about 40°C for best yeast activation.
- 2
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in the center.
2 minutes
Sift the flour for extra fluffy paus.
- 3
Pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix into a soft dough.
3 minutes
Knead until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.
- 4
Cover and let dough rest for 30 minutes, until doubled in size.
30 minutes
Rest in a warm, draft-free area for best results.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing Lotus Paste Pau as a lunch or snack means you’re opting for a steamed, low-fat alternative to fried foods commonly found in Singaporean cuisine. The moderate portion size, reduced sugar, and use of plant-based ingredients make it suitable for calorie-conscious individuals. With no dairy and the possibility of using whole grain flour, it’s a nutritious, guilt-free way to enjoy a local kopitiam favourite without compromising on taste.
Lotus Paste Pau is a vegetarian-friendly dish that offers a good balance of complex carbohydrates and plant-based protein from the lotus seeds. The use of low-sugar lotus paste and minimal oil helps reduce calories and saturated fats. Flour provides energy, while lotus seeds are rich in B vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants. This pau is free from artificial additives and, if made with wholemeal flour, contains added dietary fiber for better digestion.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Wrap the steamer lid with a clean cloth to prevent condensation from dripping onto the paus.
- 💡Tip 2: Use parchment or banana leaf squares to prevent sticking and add a local aroma.
- 💡Tip 3: For softer paus, avoid over-kneading and ensure the dough proofs adequately before shaping.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Lotus Paste Pau in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Re-steam for 5 minutes before serving to restore softness. Freezing is possible for up to 2 weeks; thaw and steam as needed.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 230.0 kcal |
