Taiwanese Gua Bao with Tender Pork Belly and Savory Filling
Soft, fluffy buns filled with tender braised pork belly, topped with fresh herbs, in about 50 minutes.
About This Recipe
Taiwanese Gua Bao are soft, pillowy buns filled with tender pork belly, topped with fresh herbs. The key move is to steam the buns just right, keeping them fluffy.
Gua Bao are a beloved Taiwanese street food, featuring fluffy steamed buns filled with juicy braised pork belly. The rich flavors and tender texture make them irresistible.
This method of simmering the pork belly allows it to absorb all that savory richness while staying tender. Keep an eye on the simmering time to avoid overcooking.
Expect a contrast of textures: the soft bun, the melt-in-your-mouth pork, and the crunch of peanuts. A common pitfall is not letting the pork rest, which can make it tough.
These buns shine when served warm, alongside a side of pickled vegetables to balance the richness. They’re perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering.
Why This Recipe Works
Tender Pork from Slow Simmering: Simmering the pork belly slowly helps it become tender and flavorful, drawing out the savory elements.
Fluffy Buns Steamed Just Right: Steaming the buns at the right temperature keeps them light and airy, ensuring they hold the filling beautifully.
Fresh Toppings Enhance Flavor: Adding crushed peanuts and herbs provides a fresh crunch that complements the rich pork perfectly.
Chef's Pro Tip: Let the pork belly rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
50 min
Servings
Ingredients
Handy tools while you cook
Directions
- 1
Cut the pork belly into thick slices. In a pot, combine soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, and water.
- 2
Add the pork belly and star anise to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- 3
While the pork simmers, prepare the bao buns according to package instructions, steaming them until fluffy.
- 4
Once the pork is tender, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- 5
Assemble the buns by placing a slice of pork belly inside each bun, adding crushed peanuts, cilantro, and mustard greens.
- 6
Serve warm, letting the flavors meld together in every bite.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving
fat
30g
carbs
30g
fiber
2g
sodium
800mg
protein
20g
calories
450
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