Umami Guru › Recipes

Cha Shao Bao (叉燒包)

China

By · Published · Updated

Char Siu Bao illustration, Chinese cuisine, anime food

Traditional Chinese steamed buns with a delicate dough and aromatic Char Siu pork filling. A crisp crust and juicy sauce make them perfect for dim sum.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Chinese cuisine, Cha Shao Bao, cooking step, Studio Ghibli‑style anime illustration

    Heat a pan, add 0.5 tbsp neutral cooking oil and sauté 0.5 onion until lightly golden.

  2. Cha Shao Bao sauce preparation – anime illustration in Studio Ghibli style

    Add 120 g water, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp Char Siu sauce and 1 tsp dark soy sauce. Bring to a boil, cook for 30 seconds, then remove the onion with a slotted spoon.

  3. Chinese cuisine, Cha Shao Bao, cooking process, Studio Ghibli‑style anime illustration

    Mix 2 tbsp tapioca starch with 45 ml water, pour the mixture into the pot over low heat and stir continuously until it reaches a jelly-like consistency. Transfer to a bowl to cool.

  4. Cha Shao Bao preparation, Chinese cuisine, anime illustration, Studio Ghibli style

    Coarsely chop the 130 g Char Siu and add it to the cooled jelly, mixing thoroughly.

  5. Anime-style illustration of mixing dough for Cha Shao Bao, in a Studio Ghibli watercolor aesthetic

    In a large bowl combine 350 g flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 2 tsp baking powder and 2 tsp dry yeast, add 1.5 tbsp neutral cooking oil. Gradually pour in 180 g warm water, knead the dough, cover and let rest for 10 minutes, then knead again until smooth.

  6. Cha Shao Bao preparation, Chinese cuisine, anime illustration, Studio Ghibli style

    Divide the dough into 14 equal pieces, covering each with plastic wrap to prevent drying.

  7. Anime illustration of making Cha Shao Bao, Chinese cuisine in a Studio Ghibli style

    Roll each piece with a rolling pin into a round disc about 9‑10 cm in diameter, making the edges thin and the center slightly thicker.

  8. Anime-style illustration of making Char Siu Bao Chinese steamed buns

    Place about 20 g of the filling (jelly with Char Siu) in the center of each disc and pinch the edges, forming the traditional “seal”.

  9. Illustration of making Cha Shao Bao, Chinese pastry in a Ghibli-inspired style

    Arrange the ready buns in a steamer lined with parchment paper (or greased), let rest for 30 minutes.

  10. Cha Shao Bao preparation, Chinese cuisine, anime illustration, Studio Ghibli style

    Steam the buns over boiling water for 10 minutes over medium‑high heat, then serve hot.

FAQ

What is Char Siu Bao (叉燒包)?

Char Siu Bao are traditional Chinese steamed buns filled with savory-sweet Char Siu (BBQ pork). They are a popular dim sum dish, known for their soft, fluffy dough and flavorful filling.

Can I make Char Siu Bao if I don't have Char Siu sauce?

While Char Siu sauce is key for authentic flavor, you can create a similar profile using a mix of hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, and a touch of five-spice powder for the filling.

How long does it take to make Char Siu Bao?

This recipe takes approximately 88 minutes, including preparation and steaming time, to create delicious Char Siu Bao from scratch.

Can Char Siu Bao be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze cooked Char Siu Bao. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1-2 months. Reheat by steaming until warm through.

What other Chinese dishes can I find on Umami Guru?

Umami Guru features a variety of authentic Chinese recipes, alongside traditional Japanese and Korean dishes, all inspired by East Asian culinary traditions and Ghibli aesthetics.