Westlake Kong Bak Bao, also known as pork belly buns, are a popular Chinese street food that is savory, sweet, and packed with flavor. If you’re looking to recreate this delicious dish at home, here is a step-by-step guide on how to make authentic Westlake Kong Bak Bao.
Ingredients you will need:
– 1 lb pork belly
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice wine
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 star anise
– 1/2 cup water
– Bao buns
1. Prepare the pork belly:
– Cut the pork belly into slices and then into cubes.
– In a large pot, combine the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, garlic, five-spice powder, star anise, and water.
– Add the pork belly cubes to the pot and bring to a boil.
– Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, until the pork belly is tender.
2. Make the bao buns:
– Follow a recipe to make bao buns or purchase pre-made bao buns from a store.
– Steam the bao buns until they are heated through.
3. Assemble the Kong Bak Bao:
– Take a bao bun and fill it with a generous portion of the braised pork belly.
– Top with some of the braising liquid for added flavor.
– Enjoy your authentic Westlake Kong Bak Bao!
Tips and variations:
– You can add other ingredients to the pork belly, such as sliced onions or hard-boiled eggs, for added flavor.
– If you prefer a spicier kick, add some chili oil or hot sauce to the bao buns.
– Serve the Kong Bak Bao with a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
In conclusion, making authentic Westlake Kong Bak Bao at home is a delicious and satisfying experience. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can recreate this popular Chinese street food in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine!