High Protein Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)

Elevate your dim sum experience with these High Protein Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao), a healthier twist on the classic Cantonese favorite. These fluffy, cloud-like buns are stuffed with a savory-sweet filling of tender pork, infused with the umami-rich flavors of soy sauce, hoisin, and oyster sauce. With a high-protein filling encased in perfectly steamed dough, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for meal prepping, snacking, or as part of a dim sum spread, these buns are surprisingly easy to make with step-by-step instructions, including a quick homemade dough and a luscious cornstarch-thickened filling. Whether you're new to steamed buns or a seasoned cook, these delightful treats are sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:90 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 350 g All-purpose flour
• 1.5 tsp Baking powder
• 1 tbsp Instant yeast
• 3 tbsp Sugar
• 180 ml Warm water
• 30 ml Milk (optional for softer buns)
• 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
• 400 g Pork tenderloin (finely diced or ground)
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1.5 tbsp Honey or sugar
• 2 tbsp Hoisin sauce
• 1.5 tbsp Oyster sauce
• 2 tsp Cornstarch
• 1 tbsp Water (for cornstarch slurry)
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Sesame oil

Directions

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, instant yeast, and 2 tablespoons of sugar.

Step 2

Gradually add the warm water and optional milk (if using), and knead for 8-10 minutes until a soft, smooth dough forms. Add the vegetable oil and knead until incorporated.

Step 3

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4

While the dough rises, prepare the pork filling. In a pan over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sesame oil. Stir-fry until aromatic.

Step 5

Add the diced or ground pork and cook until fully browned.

Step 6

Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, honey (or sugar), and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 7

Make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Add this to the pork mixture and stir until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

Step 8

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a disc about 10 cm in diameter.

Step 9

Place a spoonful of the pork filling in the center of each disc. Gather the edges of the dough up around the filling and pinch it at the top to seal.

Step 10

Prepare a steamer lined with parchment paper. Place the buns in the steamer, leaving some space between them to expand. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes for a final rise.

Step 11

Steam the buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes. Do not remove the lid immediately after steaming; let them sit for another 2 minutes before opening the lid.

Step 12

Serve warm and enjoy your high-protein steamed pork buns!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1188.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2505.1

Total Fat 46.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 14.8g
Cholesterol 295.5mg	0%
Sodium 3258.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 363.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.5g	0%
Total Sugars 74.8g
Protein 149.8g	0%

Vitamin D 43.2IU	0%
Calcium 142.8mg	0%
Iron 21.4mg	0%
Potassium 2407.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 17.0%

Protein: 24.2%

Carbs: 58.8%