In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine the two mixtures, add vegetable oil, and knead until smooth. Let it rise for 1 hour.

Shape Buns

After the dough has risen, divide into small portions and shape them into buns. Place on parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Steam Buns

Steam the buns in a bamboo steamer or a steamer basket for 10-12 minutes until fluffy.

Pork Filling

Marinate Pork

Mix soy sauce, ume plum paste, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper in a bowl. Add pork and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Grill Pork

Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill the marinated pork for about 10-15 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.

Glaze Pork

Brush additional ume plum paste on the pork during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.

Pickled Namasu

Pickle Veggies

Combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl until dissolved. Add julienned daikon and carrot. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Assembly

Assemble Bao Buns

Stuff each steamed bao bun with sliced grilled pork, top with pickled namasu, and garnish with micro cilantro.