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.

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
- 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.
- 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.
- Once cooked, remove the pork belly and let it cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Strain the braising liquid and return it to the pot. Reduce over medium heat for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Steam the bao buns according to package instructions until fluffy, about 10 minutes.
- 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.
- 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