Pork Belly Bao

Pork Belly Bao is a delectable Chinese dish featuring tender, braised pork belly tucked inside soft, fluffy bao buns. This high-protein lunch option is perfect for a satisfying meal that combines rich flavors with a delightful texture.

Pork Belly Bao
90 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Chinese
520 kcal

Ingredients

  • Pork belly - 400 grams
  • Soy sauce - 60 ml
  • Hoisin sauce - 30 ml
  • Rice vinegar - 30 ml
  • Brown sugar - 20 grams
  • Ginger - 10 grams, minced
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Star anise - 1 whole
  • Water - 200 ml
  • Bao buns - 4 pieces
  • Cucumber - 1 small, julienned
  • Fresh cilantro - 10 grams, chopped
  • Sesame oil - 10 ml

Steps

  1. In a pot, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced ginger, minced garlic, star anise, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Add the pork belly to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce. Cover and braise for about 1 hour, turning occasionally until the pork is tender.
  3. Once cooked, remove the pork belly and let it cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Strain the braising liquid and return it to the pot. Reduce over medium heat for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Steam the bao buns according to package instructions until fluffy, about 10 minutes.
  6. To assemble, place a few slices of pork belly inside each bao bun, top with julienned cucumber and chopped cilantro, and drizzle with sesame oil.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Pork Belly Bao!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Carbs: 40 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
  • Total Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
  • Contains essential vitamins and minerals from the ingredients used.

Tags

ChineseHigh ProteinLunch