
BBQ Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
Fluffy steamed buns filled with sweet and savory barbecued pork.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Yip Hong's Dim Sum Restaurant
Cantonese cuisine, particularly dim sum, has a long history influenced by the Silk Road, the port city of Guangzhou, and the need for accessible and portable meals for travelers and workers. Char Siu Bao evolved from simple steamed buns (baozi) filled with meat, developing into its sweet and savory form as culinary techniques advanced and regional tastes diversified.
Char Siu Bao is a beloved staple of Cantonese dim sum, representing a convivial and social dining experience enjoyed by families and friends.
Dim Sum Staple
Char Siu Bao is a quintessential dim sum dish, typically served alongside other small plates in bamboo steamers during brunch or lunch.
Symbol of Gathering
Dim sum, including Char Siu Bao, is often enjoyed in a social setting, representing a time for families and friends to gather and share food.
Celebratory Occasions
While available year-round, Char Siu Bao might be especially prominent during festive occasions and celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune due to its savory and sweet flavors.
Char Siu Bao presents a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, creating a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and addictive.
The core flavor profile hinges on the char siu (barbecue pork), which is marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, and Shaoxing wine, giving it a distinctively sweet, savory, and slightly smoky taste. The bun itself is subtly sweet and fluffy, providing a neutral canvas that complements the rich pork filling. The combination of these elements creates a complex flavor that is balanced and deeply satisfying.
Perfect Pork
Use pork shoulder or butt for the char siu, as it has enough fat to stay moist during cooking. Don't overcook the pork, as it will become dry.
Fluffy Bun
Use a good quality yeast and allow the dough to rise properly to ensure a light and airy bun. Over-kneading can make the bun tough.
Proper Steaming
Steam the buns over high heat to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. Avoid opening the steamer frequently, as this can release the steam and cause the buns to collapse.
Glaze Consistency
The filling should be saucy but not watery. Adjust the cornstarch slurry accordingly to achieve the correct consistency. A thicker glaze prevents the bun from getting soggy.
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