Whether you’re a fan of dim sum or simply looking to expand your culinary skills, making Chinese BBQ Pork Buns, also known as Baked Char Siu Bao, at home will surely delight your taste buds. These fluffy buns filled with tender, sweet, and savory char siu pork make for a delightful snack or meal. With this recipe, you can bring the flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right to your own kitchen.
Chinese BBQ Pork Buns – Baked Char Siu Bao Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Char Siu Pork Filling:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
For the Bun Dough:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Char Siu Pork Filling:
– In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice wine, five-spice powder, sesame oil, and oyster sauce. Mix well to create the marinade.
– Add the pork strips, garlic, and ginger to the marinade, ensuring the meat is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight for the flavors to develop.
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated pork on a baking tray in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes until the pork is cooked through and caramelized. Once done, let it cool before chopping into small pieces.
2. Make the Bun Dough:
– In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
– Add the flour, vegetable oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for around 10 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
– After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a flat circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
3. Assemble the Buns:
– Place a spoonful of the char siu pork filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully pleat and twist the edges to seal the bun, ensuring the top is smooth.
– Arrange the buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space in between each bun. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rest for an additional 20-30 minutes to rise.
4. Bake the Buns:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the tops of the buns with a beaten egg wash for a shiny finish.
– Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
– Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these Chinese BBQ Pork Buns warm or at room temperature.
Chinese BBQ Pork Buns, or Baked Char Siu Bao, make a delightful addition to any dining experience. With their fluffy texture and flavorful filling, they are bound to become a favorite in your household. These buns are perfect for gatherings, snacks, or even a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these homemade treats that capture the essence of Chinese cuisine!
