. Char Siu Bao

 Char Siu Bao, also known as BBQ Pork Buns, are a popular Dim Sum dish. These steamed buns are filled with sweet and savory barbecue pork (Char Siu) and are a delightful treat. Here's a recipe to make Char Siu Bao at home:

**Ingredients**:

**For the Char Siu Filling**:

- 1/2 pound (about 225g) Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork), diced into small pieces (You can buy Char Siu or make it at home using Char Siu recipe)

- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon sesame oil

- 1/2 cup diced onions

- 1 clove garlic, minced

**For the Bun Dough**:

- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

- 1/2 cup warm water

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

**Instructions**:

**1. Prepare the Char Siu Filling**:

- In a wok or skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat.

- Add the diced onions and minced garlic, and stir-fry for a few minutes until they are softened and fragrant.

- Add the diced Char Siu and stir-fry for a few more minutes.

- In a bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce mixture over the Char Siu and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.

**2. Prepare the Bun Dough**:

- In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

- Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir.

- Add the vegetable oil and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add a little more flour if it's too sticky.

- Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

**3. Assemble the Char Siu Bao**:

- Punch down the risen dough to release the air.

- Roll the dough into a long cylinder shape and cut it into smaller pieces, each about the size of a golf ball.

- Flatten each piece of dough into a small circle (about 4 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin.

- Place a spoonful of the Char Siu filling in the center of the dough circle.

- Gather the edges of the dough around the filling, creating a bun shape. Pinch the edges to seal.

**4. Steam the Char Siu Bao**:

- Arrange the filled buns in a parchment paper-lined bamboo steamer basket, ensuring they are not too close together.

- Steam the buns over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked and have a smooth, shiny appearance.

**5. Serve**:

- Carefully remove the Char Siu Bao from the steamer and serve them hot.

Enjoy your homemade Char Siu Bao, these sweet and savory BBQ pork buns, as a delicious snack or part of your Dim Sum meal.