Dongpo Rou Buns Recipe
Introduction to Dongpo Rou Buns
Dongpo Rou Buns, a famed delicacy often enjoyed in Chinese cuisine, traces its origins back to the Song Dynasty. Named after the renowned poet and gastronome Su Dongpo, this dish marries the succulent and savory flavors of Dongpo Rou with the tender embrace of fluffy buns, making for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients
- 1 kg pork belly
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1/2 cup Shaoxing wine
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 5 slices of ginger
- 4 scallions, tied into knots
- 2 pieces of star anise
- 1 cup water
- 500g flour
- 250ml water (for dough)
- 2 teaspoons yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Preparation
Preparation of Dongpo Rou
Start by thoroughly cleaning the pork belly. In a large pot, add water to submerge the pork and bring to a boil. Blanch for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Dough for Buns
In a bowl, mix yeast, a little sugar, and lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Cooking Process
Cooking the Dongpo Rou
Step 1: Marinating
Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and brown sugar in a bowl. Coat the blanched pork belly in the mixture and set aside for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Braising
Place the marinated pork in a clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan. Add Shaoxing wine, ginger slices, scallions, star anise, and a cup of water. Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat. Cover and braise on a gentle simmer for about 2 hours, turning occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth Dongpo Rou.
Steaming the Buns
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a flat disc. Fold over and place on small squares of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Allow the buns to rise again for 20 minutes.
Prepare a steamer and steam the buns for about 12-15 minutes until fluffy and cooked through. Link your timing process with a precise cooking timer for perfect results.
Assembling the Dongpo Rou Buns
Once the Dongpo Rou is ready and has rested, slice it carefully. Gently open the steamed buns and fill them with succulent pieces of Dongpo Rou. Optionally, top with a bit of fresh scallions for a burst of flavor and color.
How to Enjoy Dongpo Rou Buns
Savor the culinary harmony of tender, flavorful Dongpo Rou and cloud-like buns as they melt effortlessly in your mouth. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy indulgence, these buns pair wonderfully with a refreshing jasmine tea. Enjoy the layers of taste and history in every bite.
Mastering the craft of making Dongpo Rou Buns is a rewarding journey through Chinese gastronomy, inviting you to explore the rich flavors passed down through generations. Let each bun transport you back to the distinguished feasts of Su Dongpo himself.