Dissolved yeast and sugar in half cup water. Sift together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.

In a bowl, put the remaining water, sugar, oil, salt and half of the flour.

Add in the yeast mixture.

Add enough flour to form soft dough: Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

Place on a greased bowl and let rise until double in bulk.

Punch down dough and divide into 12 pieces.

Roll into balls and let rest for 5 – 10 minutes.

Roll out each ball, making the sides thinner than the center.

Put some prepared filling at the center.

Gather the sides toward the center and flute the seal.

Place a square piece of paper at the bottom of the dough.

Do the same for all the dough and filling.

Set aside the shaped dough and let rise until double in size.

Boil the water in the steamer.

Steam siopao for 20-25 minutes or until done.