Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsChoLon - DowntownBao Buns Recipe

Bao Buns Recipe

Inspired by ChoLon - Downtown
Time2h
Serves4

Cha Ca La Shrimp Cake, Turmeric Jam, Dill Pork Belly or Tofu, Cabbage Slaw

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Ingredients

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Bao Buns

Cha Ca La Shrimp Cake

Method

Bao Buns

  1. 1

    Prepare the Dough

    In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.

  3. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    Gradually add the dry mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

  4. 4

    Knead the Dough

    Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.

  5. 5

    Let Dough Rise

    Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  6. 6

    Shape the Bao Buns

    Divide the dough into small balls and flatten into oval shapes. Place them on parchment paper.

  7. 7

    Steam the Buns

    Steam the buns for about 10-15 minutes until fluffy.

Cha Ca La Shrimp Cake

  1. 8

    Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

    In a bowl, combine shrimp, turmeric, minced garlic, egg, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

  2. 9

    Form Cakes

    Shape the mixture into small patties.

  3. 10

    Cook the Shrimp Cakes

    Heat a pan with oil over medium heat and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Turmeric Jam

  1. 11

    Combine Ingredients

    In a saucepan, combine grated turmeric, honey, and lemon juice.

  2. 12

    Cook the Jam

    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until thickened.

  3. 13

    Cool and Store

    Let the jam cool before transferring to a jar for storage.

Dill Pork Belly or Tofu

  1. 14

    Marinate the Protein

    In a bowl, mix dill, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add pork belly or tofu and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. 15

    Cook the Protein

    Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the marinated pork belly or tofu until crispy and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes each side.

Cabbage Slaw

  1. 16

    Mix the Slaw

    In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrot, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and salt. Toss well to combine.

  2. 17

    Chill

    Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator before serving.

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