Char Siu Bao (fluffy Manchu Steamed Pork Buns)

Char Siu Bao, also known as Fluffy Manchu Steamed Pork Buns, are a popular dish in Manchu cuisine. These soft and fluffy buns are filled with savory and sweet char siu pork, creating a delicious and satisfying treat.

Non Vegetarian Main Course Manchu Manchu Cuisine Steamed Buns Pork Buns
Char Siu Bao (fluffy Manchu Steamed Pork Buns)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1/4 tsp red food coloring (optional)
  • 1 lb char siu pork, diced

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Let it rise for 1 hour.
  3. In a saucepan, mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, Chinese five-spice powder, and red food coloring. Add the diced char siu pork and cook until heated through.
  4. Divide the dough into 12 pieces and roll each piece into a small circle. Place a spoonful of the char siu pork filling in the center of each circle, then gather the edges and pinch to seal.
  5. Place the buns on parchment paper in a steamer and let them rise for 15 minutes. Steam the buns for 15 minutes until puffed and cooked through.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
15 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
280 per bun
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Steamer Parchment paper

Tools

Mixing bowls Saucepan

Serving suggestions

Serve the Char Siu Bao hot as a delicious appetizer or as a main dish accompanied by steamed vegetables.

Tips & tricks

For an extra special touch, brush the steamed buns with a mixture of honey and water for a shiny glaze before serving.

Cost

$15