Cha Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)

with USimplySeason Chinese Five Spice

Bold, comforting, and made for everyday magic!

There's something magical about breaking open a soft, fluffy bun to reveal rich, aromatic BBQ pork inside. This version of Cha Siu Bao puts our USimplySeason Chinese Five Spice front and center — infusing each bite with warm notes of cinnamon, star anise, clove, fennel, and Sichuan pepper. Whether you steam them or bake them golden, these buns are sure to become a family favorite.

⏳Prep Time: 1 hour (includes dough rising) | 🔥Cook time: 15–18 minutes | 🥘 Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes | 📌Servings: 10–12 buns

Ingredients

Dough

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• ½ tsp salt

Filling

• 1 tbsp oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup cooked pork (chopped or shredded)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for vegan)
• 1½ tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp honey or sugar
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• 1½ tsp USimplySeason Chinese Five Spice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:
   • Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 min until foamy.
   • Add flour, oil, salt. Knead until smooth. Cover and rise 1 hour.
2. Make the Filling:
   • Sauté garlic and onion. Add pork, sauces, honey, sesame oil, and Chinese Five Spice.
   • Stir in slurry. Cook 2–3 min until thick. Cool completely.
3. Shape Buns:
   • Divide dough into 10–12 balls. Flatten and fill with pork mix.
   • Pinch to seal.
4. Cook:
   • To Steam: Steam over boiling water for 12–15 min.
   • To Bake: Brush with egg wash. Bake at 375°F for 15–18 min.

Make It Your Own

• Swap pork with mushrooms or jackfruit.
• Add chili flakes for heat.
• Freeze before steaming for easy future meals.