Soft, pillowy steamed buns filled with creamy avocado offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite. The rich, buttery avocado pairs perfectly with the light, airy dough, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up these buns, making them an ideal choice for a quick snack or a unique addition to your meal.

These avocado steamed buns are a celebration of simplicity and indulgence, with the vibrant green filling adding a pop of color and freshness. The gentle steam locks in moisture, ensuring each bun is tender and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a fuss-free way to impress with its irresistible combination of smooth, savory, and subtly sweet notes.

Ingredients for Avocado Steamed Buns

Steamed buns (store-bought or homemade, about 6 buns)
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 lime, for squeezing
1 cup shredded cabbage (napa, red, or a mix)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
Pinch of salt (for cabbage and avocado)
Yuzu kosho or wasabi (to taste, optional)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Sriracha (for serving, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the cabbage: In a bowl, mix the shredded cabbage with rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days in the fridge).
Prepare the avocado: Slice the avocado and squeeze a bit of lime juice over the slices. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Assemble the buns: If using homemade buns, steam them until soft and fluffy. For store-bought, follow package instructions. Spread a small amount of yuzu kosho or a tiny dab of wasabi on the inside of each bun.
Stuff the buns: Layer the marinated cabbage and avocado slices inside each bun. Be generous but ensure the buns can still close comfortably.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the stuffed buns with sesame seeds. Serve immediately with sriracha on the side for an extra kick.

Creative Sauce and Topping Ideas

While *yuzu kosho* and *sriracha* are fantastic, you can experiment with other sauces like *spicy mayo* (mix mayo with sriracha or chili oil) or a *tahini-lime drizzle* for a creamy twist. For toppings, try adding *pickled carrots* or *radishes* for extra crunch, or sprinkle *furikake* for a savory umami kick.

Perfect Pairings for Serving

These avocado steamed buns make a great appetizer or light meal. Pair them with *miso soup* or a *cucumber seaweed salad* for a complete Japanese-inspired spread. For a refreshing drink, serve with *iced green tea* or a *citrus-infused sparkling water*.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks

If you’re short on time, *store-bought steamed buns* are a great shortcut. You can also prep the *marinated cabbage* and *sliced avocado* (with lime juice) a day ahead—just store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble the buns right before serving for the freshest taste.

Storage and Reheating Advice

These buns are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store *unassembled components* in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you have leftover assembled buns, wrap them in foil and *steam for 2-3 minutes* to revive their soft texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the buns soggy.

Recipe Variations to Try

Switch things up by using *grilled tofu* or *sliced cucumber* instead of avocado. For a heartier option, add *teriyaki-glazed chicken* or *spicy shrimp*. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the cabbage for *kimchi* for a tangy, spicy twist.