Ingredients

1 tablespoon dried yeast
1 cup warm water ( about 110F )
1/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons salad oil
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter , melted
1 1/2 lbs lean pork , boneless cut in 1/2-inch cubes
1 onion , finely choped
2 garlic cloves , minced
1 tablespoon ginger , grated
2 teaspoons sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon dry sherry
1/2 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 cup water
Chinese Pork-Filled Buns, or baozi, are a popular street food in China and are often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, but this recipe features lean pork and a flavorful sauce for a satisfying meal. The dough is made from scratch and the filling is cooked with fresh aromatics for added flavor. These buns are a great option for meal prep or a special weekend dinner with family and friends. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and add the sugar and salad oil. Mix well and let sit for 5 minutes.
2.Mix in the flour until well combined, then turn out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic. Return to the bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for about an hour.
3.While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Heat a large, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
4.Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan and cook until softened. Stir in the sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, dry sherry, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and water. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the pork is cooked through.
5.After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a flat circle, then place a spoonful of the pork filling in the center of each circle. Pinch the edges of the dough together over the filling and place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Let rise for another 20 minutes.
6.Preheat oven to 350F. Brush the buns with the melted butter and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

PROS

These homemade buns are packed with flavor and make for a satisfying and delicious meal.
They can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated throughout the week for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option.

The filling is high in protein and the dough is made from scratch, providing a healthier alternative to ready-made buns from the store.

CONS

The prep and cook time for this recipe is a bit longer and may require some patience and planning.

There is a bit of added sugar in the dough and filling, so those watching their sugar intake should enjoy in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

These buns are a good source of protein and fiber, making them a satisfying and filling meal option.
The ginger in the filling has been linked to aiding in digestion and reducing inflammation, while the sesame oil provides healthy unsaturated fats. The homemade dough also allows for control over the ingredients and avoids any preservatives or additives found in store-bought options.

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