Mandarin rolls, steamed Mandarin rolls, flower buns, or huā juǎn (Chinese: 花捲/卷) are a kind of steamed bun that originate from northern China but are popular throughout the country.[1] Like mantou, the mandarin roll is a dim sum dish and a staple of Chinese cuisine. Huā juǎn are named for their distinctive shape; the literal English translation of "huā juǎn" is "flower twist."[2]
Mandarin rolls are usually savory, thanks to the use of scallions, salt, and occasional addition of Chinese five spice in the filling. However, sweet versions also exist. Because southern varieties of mandarin rolls are slightly sweet, they can be eaten plain. Sometimes they are eaten with sweetened condensed milk.
