Sheng Jian Bao ( Shanghai PanFried Pork Buns) Omnivores Cookbook

Oleh wallacf March 24, 2024 Post a Comment

Sheng Jian Bao Gebratene Schweinebrötchen Pork buns, Food, Recipes

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What are Sheng Jian Bao?
How to Make Sheng Jian Bao
What is the History of Sheng Jian Bao?
What are Some Variations of Sheng Jian Bao?
Where Can I Find Sheng Jian Bao?

What are Sheng Jian Bao?

Sheng Jian Bao, also known as pan-fried pork soup dumplings, is a popular Chinese street food. These dumplings originated in Shanghai and are a delicious treat enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Sheng Jian Bao is similar to the better-known Xiaolongbao, but with a slight variation in the cooking method.

The dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, scallions, and a flavorful broth. The key difference between Sheng Jian Bao and Xiaolongbao is that Sheng Jian Bao is pan-fried, giving it a crispy bottom and a juicy, soupy interior.

How to Make Sheng Jian Bao

Making Sheng Jian Bao at home may seem intimidating, but with a little practice, you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make Sheng Jian Bao:

Gather the Ingredients

To make Sheng Jian Bao, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 pound ground pork
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons chopped scallions
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 cup chicken or pork broth
1/4 cup vegetable oil

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, chopped scallions, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Gradually add the chicken or pork broth while stirring the mixture. This will create a juicy filling for the dumplings.

Assemble and Cook the Sheng Jian Bao

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small equal-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a small circle, about 4 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Pleat the edges of the dough to seal the filling and form a dumpling. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling are used.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Arrange the dumplings in the skillet, leaving some space between each one. Cook the dumplings for about 2 minutes until the bottom becomes golden brown. Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet, cover it with a lid, and let the dumplings steam for about 5 minutes or until the water has evaporated. Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the bottom is crispy again.

Once the Sheng Jian Bao is cooked, transfer them to a serving plate and serve them hot. They are traditionally enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

What is the History of Sheng Jian Bao?

The history of Sheng Jian Bao can be traced back to the late 19th century in Shanghai, China. It is said that the dish was created by a street food vendor who wanted to offer a portable and flavorful snack to the locals. The vendor came up with the idea of combining the flavors of Xiaolongbao, a steamed soup dumpling, with the crispy texture of pan-fried dumplings.

Sheng Jian Bao quickly gained popularity in Shanghai and became a favorite street food among the locals. The dish's unique combination of textures and flavors made it a hit, and it soon spread to other parts of China.

Over the years, Sheng Jian Bao has undergone some variations and adaptations. While the traditional filling consists of ground pork, scallions, and a savory broth, some modern versions may include additional ingredients such as crab meat, shrimp, or vegetables. These variations have only added to the popularity of Sheng Jian Bao, making it a versatile and beloved dish.

What are Some Variations of Sheng Jian Bao?

While the traditional Sheng Jian Bao recipe features a filling of ground pork, scallions, and a savory broth, there are several variations of this delicious dish:

Vegetarian Sheng Jian Bao

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, the filling of Sheng Jian Bao can be made with ingredients such as mushrooms, tofu, and vegetables. The flavors and textures of the pan-fried dumplings remain intact, providing a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian alternative.

Seafood Sheng Jian Bao

Seafood lovers can enjoy a variation of Sheng Jian Bao that includes shrimp, crab meat, or a combination of both. The seafood filling adds a unique flavor and a touch of luxury to the dumplings.

Spicy Sheng Jian Bao

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy Sheng Jian Bao is the perfect choice. The traditional filling is enhanced with spices such as chili powder, Sichuan peppercorns, or chili oil, providing a fiery kick to the dumplings.

Cheese-filled Sheng Jian Bao

A modern twist on the classic recipe, cheese-filled Sheng Jian Bao is a delightful surprise for cheese lovers. The dumplings are filled with a mixture of cheese and the traditional pork filling, creating a rich and gooey center.

Where Can I Find Sheng Jian Bao?

Sheng Jian Bao can be found in various places, both in China and internationally. In China, you can find them in local street food markets, night markets, and traditional restaurants. Shanghai, being the birthplace of Sheng Jian Bao, is an excellent city to try this delicious dish.

Outside of China, many Chinese restaurants and dim sum establishments serve Sheng Jian Bao. They are often listed on the menu as "pan-fried soup dumplings" or "Shanghai-style pan-fried dumplings." Some international cities with a significant Chinese population, such as New York, London, and Sydney, also have specialty restaurants that offer Sheng Jian Bao.

Conclusion

Sheng Jian Bao, or pan-fried pork soup dumplings, is a beloved Chinese street food that has gained popularity both in China and internationally. These delicious dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, scallions, and a flavorful broth. The pan-frying method gives them a crispy bottom and a juicy, soupy interior, making them a delight to bite into.

Sheng Jian Bao can be enjoyed in its traditional form or with various adaptations, including vegetarian, seafood, spicy, and cheese-filled versions. Their versatility and delicious flavors have made them a favorite among dumpling enthusiasts around the world.

Whether you decide to try making Sheng Jian Bao at home or seek them out at a local restaurant, be prepared to indulge in a truly satisfying culinary experience. With their rich history and mouth-watering taste, Sheng Jian Bao is a must-try for any food lover.

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