Craving an authentic taste of Xi'an street food? Look no further than Rou Jia Mo, the iconic Chinese hamburger that's captivating food lovers worldwide. This isn't your average burger; Rou Jia Mo boasts a delightful interplay of textures and flavors, featuring tender, slow-braised pork nestled within a soft, fluffy white bread roll. The secret lies in the perfectly marinated and cooked pork, infused with aromatic spices that create a rich, savory depth. This seemingly simple dish is a testament to the culinary artistry of Xi'an, a city steeped in history and vibrant street food culture.
Forget the fast-food chains; this recipe will guide you through creating an authentic Rou Jia Mo experience from scratch. From preparing the perfectly seasoned pork to assembling the final masterpiece, we’ll walk you through each step to ensure your Rou Jia Mo is as delicious as the ones sold in the bustling streets of Xi'an. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Steamer
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
Ingredients
- Pork belly
- Soy sauce
- Shaoxing wine
- Rock sugar
- Star anise
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Scallions
- Flour
- Water
- Baking powder
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling
- Cut into bite-sized pieces. Marinate with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rock sugar, star anise, cinnamon, ginger, garlic, and scallions.
- Braise the marinated pork belly until tender. The exact timing will depend on the size of the pieces. Make sure it is fall-apart tender.
Step 2. Prepare the Buns
- Mix flour, water, and baking powder to form a smooth dough. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Then, roll out the dough into thin circles.
- Steam or pan-fry the dough circles until they are fluffy.
Step 3. Assemble the Rou Jia Mo
- Fill the cooked buns with the braised pork belly.
Read more: Easy Char Siu Chicken Roast: Sweet & Sticky BBQ Chicken Recipe
Tips
- Ensure the pork belly is very tender. This is key to the deliciousness of the Rou Jia Mo.
- Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
- The buns should be soft and fluffy.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 60-70g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. What kind of meat is traditionally used in Rou Jia Mo?
Traditionally, braised pork belly is used, but you can adapt the recipe with other cuts of pork or even beef.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
3. Where can I find the specific spices mentioned in the recipe?
Many Asian grocery stores carry the spices. You can also often find them online.
Congratulations! You've now mastered the art of making authentic Rou Jia Mo. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this iconic Xi'an street food, and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills. Now go forth and savor the delicious rewards of your hard work!