Baozi

Baozi is a type of yeast-leavened filled bun in various Chinese cuisines. There are many variations in fillings (meat or vegetarian) and preparations, though the buns are most often steamed. They are a variation of mantou also said to have been invented by Zhuge Liang.

History

The baozi was reportedly invented by the Chinese military strategist Zhuge Liang during the Three Kingdoms period (3rd century AD). Zhuge Liang is said to have invented the baozi while on a military campaign.

Preparation

Baozi is made by filling a dough ball with a filling, which can be meat or a variety of vegetables, and then steamed. The dough is made from flour, yeast, and water. The filling is usually pre-cooked to ensure that the filling is cooked thoroughly before the baozi is eaten.

Varieties

There are many varieties of baozi in Chinese cuisine, including:

• Jiaozi - a type of baozi with a thinner skin and more filling, usually eaten with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce.
• Xiaolongbao - a type of baozi from the Jiangnan region, especially associated with Shanghai and Wuxi. It is traditionally filled with pork and a savory broth that gushes out upon the first bite.
• Doushabao - a sweet version of baozi filled with red bean paste.

In Popular Culture

Baozi has been featured in various forms of media, including films, television shows, and books, often as a symbol of Chinese culture.

See Also

• Mantou
• Chinese cuisine
• Dim sum

References

Baozi Resources
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