Mongolian Buuz (Steamed Dumplings) – Meat-filled Dumplings with a Juicy Center
Mongolian Buuz is a traditional steamed dumpling filled with seasoned meat, usually lamb or beef, and aromatic spices. These dumplings are an essential part of Mongolian cuisine, often prepared during Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year) and other celebrations. Their juicy, flavorful filling encased in a soft, tender dough makes them a beloved dish across Mongolia and Central Asia.
A Staple Across Asia: The Many Names of Buuz
Buuz is deeply rooted in Mongolian culture and has close relatives in various countries:
East & Central Asia
- Mongolia: Buuz (Бууз) – Traditional steamed dumpling
- China: Baozi (包子) – Similar dough-wrapped dumplings, often with various fillings
- Tibet: Momo – Usually steamed but can also be fried or boiled
Russia & Eastern Europe
- Russia & Siberia: Posikunchik – Crescent-shaped dumplings with meat fillings
- Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan: Manty – Larger dumplings, sometimes steamed or boiled
Turkey & Middle East
- Turkey: Manti – Small dumplings often served with yogurt sauce
- Armenia & Azerbaijan: Khingal – Dumpling-like pasta dishes with meat
These dumplings, though different in shape and cooking style, share a common theme of seasoned meat wrapped in dough, making Buuz part of a rich global dumpling tradition.
Recipe Overview (Quick Facts Section)
- Preparation Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 480 kcal
- Cooking Difficulty: Moderate
- Lifestyle Suitability: High-Protein, Traditional Asian Cuisine
- Countries Where the Dish is Popular: Mongolia, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
Detailed Description
Mongolian Buuz is a must-try dish for those interested in authentic Mongolian cuisine. The dumplings feature a juicy meat filling, wrapped in soft dough and steamed to perfection. They are traditionally made during Tsagaan Sar (Mongolian Lunar New Year), but they are also eaten throughout the year.
The filling consists of lamb or beef, combined with onions, garlic, salt, and black pepper, ensuring a simple yet bold flavor. The dough, made with flour and water, is rolled out, filled with the meat mixture, and then carefully pleated before being steamed.
The result? A savory and aromatic dumpling that bursts with meaty juices when bitten into. It’s often served with fermented dairy drinks like Airag (fermented mare’s milk) or a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
Ingredients (Serving for 4 People)
✅ For the Dough
✔ 3 cups all-purpose flour
✔ 1 cup warm water
✔ ½ tsp salt
✅ For the Filling
✔ 400g ground lamb or beef
✔ 1 onion, finely chopped
✔ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 1 tsp black pepper
✔ 1½ tsp salt
✔ ½ tsp ground cumin
✔ ¼ cup water (for extra juiciness)
Items NOT Included in Delivery:
- Water
- Flour
List of Utensils Required:
✔ Mixing bowl
✔ Rolling pin
✔ Steamer or steaming basket
✔ Knife & cutting board
✔ Dumpling pleating tool (optional)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving & Per 100g)
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4-5 dumplings) | Per 100g |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 480 kcal | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 25g | 10.4g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g | 21g |
| Fat | 18g | 7.5g |
| Fiber | 2g | 0.8g |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, kneading until you get a smooth, elastic dough. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, black pepper, salt, and cumin. Add ¼ cup water to keep the filling extra juicy. Mix well.

Step 3: Roll out the dough to ⅛-inch thickness and cut out 3-inch circles. Place 1 tbsp of filling in the center of each dough circle. Pinch and pleat the edges to form a round dumpling, sealing the top.

Step 4: Lightly grease a steamer basket to prevent sticking. Arrange Buuz in the steamer, leaving space between each dumpling. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.

Step 5: Serve hot with soy sauce, vinegar, or chili oil. Pair with Mongolian Airag (fermented mare’s milk) or salted milk tea for an authentic experience.

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