Cha Siu Bao, or Chinese BBQ pork buns, are a beloved street food and dim sum staple, renowned for their soft, pillowy buns cradling a succulent, sweet and savory filling. These delightful treats offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, the tender bun contrasting beautifully with the rich, caramelized char siu pork within. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to bustling Asian markets, evoking feelings of warmth and delicious anticipation. From homemade to store-bought, the experience of biting into a perfectly executed Cha Siu Bao is universally cherished.
This recipe will guide you through creating your own batch of these iconic buns, from preparing the flavorful char siu marinade to mastering the art of perfectly proofing the dough. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, follow along step-by-step as we unlock the secrets to making irresistible, authentic Cha Siu Bao at home.
Tools Needed
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Steamer
- Oven
Ingredients
- Pork belly
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Honey
- Five-spice powder
- Shaoxing rice wine
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Bread flour
- Sugar
- Yeast
- Baking powder
- Milk
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling and Dough
- Prepare the Cha Siu pork filling. Marinate the pork belly with soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, five-spice powder, Shaoxing rice wine, ginger, and garlic.
- Mix the dough ingredients (bread flour, sugar, yeast, baking powder, milk, eggs, and vegetable oil). Knead until smooth and elastic.
Step 2. Proof and Shape the Buns
- Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a bun and fill with the marinated Cha Siu pork.
Step 3. Bake the Buns
- Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with milk or egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown.
Step 4. Enjoy!
- Enjoy your homemade Baked Cha Siu Bao!
Read more: Easy Steamed Tofu with Shallot Sauce Recipe - Vegan Delight
Tips
- For a softer bun, you can steam the buns for a few minutes before baking.
- Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the Cha Siu filling to your preference.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can result in tough buns.
- Allow the dough to rise sufficiently for a fluffy texture.
- Ensure that the oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking.
- Serve warm!
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought dough for the Cha Siu Bao?
Yes! While making the dough from scratch is rewarding, store-bought dough (such as bread dough or even pre-made bao dough) works perfectly fine and saves time.
2. How do I store leftover Cha Siu Bao?
Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a steamer or oven before serving.
With a little patience and these simple steps, you've successfully crafted delicious, homemade Cha Siu Bao. Enjoy the rewarding taste of these fluffy, flavorful buns, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Now go forth and impress everyone with your newfound baking skills!