In a bowl mix flour, yeast, salt and sugar and add a lukewarm (but not hot) plant based drink or water.
Slowly mix the dough with a wooden spatula in a circular motion from the middle outwards, then knead it with your hands for another 5-10 minutes to get a smooth dough. (If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour, if it is too dry and flour remains at the bottom, add a little water.)
Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes in a warm place.
When the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal parts, shape each into a ball with your hands, flatten it and form 8 notches with a toothpick. Place on a floured surface, cover with a kitchen towel and let rest for another 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring the water to a boil in a large pot. When it boils, add baking soda and salt. Place the risen balls in boiling water and cook for 30 seconds on each side, then place them on the cooling rack for a minute to drain off excess liquid. Transfer the balls to a baking tray lined with baking paper and cut on top with a sharp knife.
Bake the buns in a preheated oven at 200 °C until golden brown (15-20 minutes).
Once the buns are baked, place them on a cooling rack and allow to cool.
