Lunar New Year – Pork Belly Bao Recipe

Lunar New Year – Pork Belly Bao Recipe

Pork Belly Bao Buns

Celebrate Lunar New Year with Pork Belly Bao

The Lunar New Year is a time to gather with loved ones, share delicious food, and welcome prosperity for the year ahead. One dish that embodies celebration and togetherness is Pork Belly Bao. These soft, pillowy buns filled with tender, flavourful pork belly and vibrant garnishes are the perfect way to honor the occasion.

At Urban Butcher, we’re all about providing the finest ingredients to elevate your Lunar New Year feast. Let’s ring in the new year with this unforgettable recipe!

Why Pork Belly Bao for Lunar New Year?

In many Asian cultures, pork symbolizes wealth and abundance, making it an ideal centerpiece for Lunar New Year festivities. The rich, slow-braised pork belly paired with quick-pickled vegetables represents a balance of indulgence and freshness, while the steamed buns signify completeness and unity. Every bite is a celebration of tradition and flavour.

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

Pork Belly Bao Buns Ingredients

For the Pork Belly:

  • 1.5 lb pork belly from Urban Butcher (skin on preferably)
  • White part of green onions (4-5 stalks, roughly chopped into 2-inch pieces)
  • 1.5-inch knob of ginger, sliced
  • 1/4 cup rock sugar
  • 1 star anise
  • 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine
  • 1/4 cup light soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 2 cups water (enough to cover 2/3 of the belly)

Quick Pickled Shallots:

  • 1 shallot, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp sugar or 1 small piece of rock sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Quick Pickled Cucumbers:

  • 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar

To Serve:

  • 6 steamed buns (bao)
  • Optional garnishes: Kewpie mayo, chili oil, hoisin sauce, fresh cilantro

Pork Belly Bao Buns Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blanch the Pork Belly

Start by blanching the pork belly to remove impurities. Place it in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 15 minutes, skimming off any foam or impurities. Remove the pork belly and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Braising Sauce

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Heat 3 tbsp of oil (canola or avocado) in an ovenproof pan over medium heat. Add the star anise, green onions, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic. Stir in the rock sugar, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, and dark soy sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sugar dissolves.

3. Braise the Pork Belly

Slice the pork belly into thick slices, stopping 2/3 of the way down to keep it intact as one piece. Place the pork belly in the braising sauce, ensuring it’s well coated. Add enough water to submerge the pork belly 2/3 of the way. Bring the mixture to a boil, cover the pan, and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, basting the pork with the sauce every 30 minutes.

4. Roast for a Crispy Finish

Once the pork is tender, uncover the pan and increase the oven temperature to 400°F. Roast the pork for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

5. Prepare the Garnishes

  • Pickled Cucumbers: Toss cucumber slices with salt and sugar. Let sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
  • Pickled Shallots: Bring red wine vinegar, sugar, and salt to a boil. Pour the mixture over the sliced shallots and let them pickle while the pork cooks.
  • Steam the Buns: Reheat store-bought buns by steaming them over boiling water for 2 minutes.

6. Assemble the Bao

Fill each steamed bun with a slice of tender pork belly, pickled cucumbers, and shallots. Garnish with fresh cilantro and your favorite condiments, such as Kewpie mayo, chili oil, or hoisin sauce.

Tips for Lunar New Year Success

  • Use Premium Ingredients: Start with high-quality pork belly from Urban Butcher to start the year off right.
  • Make It a Family Activity: Preparing bao buns together is a wonderful way to bond with loved ones and share in the festive spirit.

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your Lunar New Year feast, serve Pork Belly Bao alongside dishes like stir-fried noodles (symbolizing longevity), dumplings (representing prosperity), or a refreshing citrus salad. Pair with jasmine tea or a sparkling mocktail to toast the occasion.

Start your Lunar New Year celebrations with a dish that brings flavour, tradition, and joy to the table. Visit Urban Butcher to pick up your premium pork belly and make this year’s feast unforgettable.

Share your Pork Belly Bao creations with us on Instagram by tagging @UrbanButcherYYC. Let’s celebrate the year ahead together!

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