Chinese bakery

Chinese Bakery is a type of bakery that originated in China. Chinese bakeries produce a variety of baked goods, including both sweet and savory items, that are commonly found in Chinese communities around the world.

History

The history of the Chinese bakery is deeply intertwined with the history of Chinese cuisine. The first Chinese bakeries emerged during the Han Dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD), when the art of baking was introduced to China from Central Asia. These early bakeries produced simple breads and pastries, which were often used as offerings in religious ceremonies.

Types of Baked Goods

Chinese bakeries offer a wide range of baked goods. Some of the most popular items include:

• Mooncake: A traditional Chinese pastry that is typically eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Mooncakes are round or rectangular in shape and are filled with sweet or savory fillings.

• Pineapple bun: Despite its name, the pineapple bun does not contain any pineapple. The name comes from the appearance of the bun's sugary top crust, which resembles the texture of a pineapple's skin.

• Egg tart: A type of custard tart found in China's various regions, which consists of an outer pastry crust filled with egg custard.

• Char siu bao: A Cantonese barbecue-pork-filled bun (baozi). The buns are filled with barbecue-flavored cha siu pork. They are served as a type of dim sum during yum cha and are sometimes sold in Chinese bakeries.

Techniques and Ingredients

Chinese bakeries use a variety of techniques and ingredients in their baking. Many Chinese baked goods are made with wheat flour, rice flour, or glutinous rice flour, and are sweetened with sugar, honey, or sweet bean pastes. Chinese bakeries also frequently use ingredients like red bean paste, lotus seed paste, and sesame seeds in their baked goods.

Chinese Bakeries Around the World

Chinese bakeries can be found in Chinese communities around the world, including in cities like San Francisco, New York City, London, and Sydney. These bakeries serve as important cultural hubs, providing a taste of home for Chinese immigrants and introducing others to the delights of Chinese baked goods.

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