Pork Belly Bao Buns
Pork Belly Bao Buns are soft, fluffy steamed buns filled with tender, braised pork belly, often garnished with pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a savory-sweet sauce. Originating from Chinese cuisine, particularly popular in regions like Shanghai and Taiwan, they are a beloved street food and dim sum staple.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in fat and protein due to the pork belly, with moderate carbs from the steamed bun. A typical serving provides a good source of iron and B vitamins, and generally ranges from 300 to 500 calories per bun, depending on portion size and preparation.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Selenium | 18 mcg |
| Zinc | 3 mg |
Per 2 bao buns (180 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, bao buns symbolize comfort and celebration in many Asian cuisines, often enjoyed during festivals or family gatherings. Nutritionally, the slow-cooking of pork belly helps render fat, making it surprisingly tender and flavorful while allowing the bun to absorb the rich juices.
