Bánh Bao Hanoi

Introduction to Bánh Bao Hanoi

Bánh Bao, a quintessential Vietnamese dish with Chinese culinary influences, is a steam bun filled with various ingredients, typically including minced pork, hard-boiled eggs, and fragrant spices. The dish holds cultural significance, often served during special occasions or as a popular street food snack throughout Hanoi.

Historical Background

Bánh Bao traces its roots back to China, where it is known as "baozi." The Vietnamese version was adapted to local tastes and available ingredients, evolving into the well-loved Hanoi-style Bánh Bao. The buns have become a staple, known for their fluffy exterior and savory fillings.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 500g
• Sugar - 50g
• Dry yeast - 10g
• Milk - 250ml
• Minced pork - 300g
• Hard-boiled eggs - 3
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Fish sauce - 2 tbsp
• Soy sauce - 1 tbsp
• Baking powder - 1 tsp
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Pepper - 1/2 tsp
• Green onion - 2 stalks, chopped
• Cooking oil - 2 tbsp

Preparation

Dough Preparation

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve sugar and dry yeast in milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes or until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Filling Preparation

1. In a pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat, and sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add minced pork and cook until browned.
3. Stir in fish sauce and soy sauce, seasoning with pepper to taste.
4. Mix in chopped green onion, remove from heat, and let cool.
5. Cut hard-boiled eggs into quarters and set aside.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Bánh Bao

1. Once the dough has risen, divide it into balls approximately the size of a golf ball.
2. Roll each dough ball into a flat circle, about 5 inches in diameter.
3. Place a tablespoon of the pork mixture and a piece of hard-boiled egg in the center of the circle.
4. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching together to seal well.

Steaming the Bánh Bao

1. Arrange the buns on a tray, leaving space for expansion.
2. Bring water in a steamer to a boil and arrange the buns on steaming racks.
3. Steam over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Allow the Bánh Bao to cool slightly before serving. They're perfect as a breakfast item, snack, or light lunch. To enhance the experience, serve with a side of fresh pickled vegetables or dip in a mixture of soy sauce and chili.

Enjoying Bánh Bao

Bánh Bao are best enjoyed warm. Their delightful contrast of a soft, fluffy bun and savory, aromatic filling is irresistible. Pair it with your favorite herbal tea or Vietnamese nước mía (sugarcane juice) for a truly authentic feel.