Taiwan Pork Belly Buns

Instructions

• The Buns: In a measuring jug, place the sugar and warm water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
• Add the active yeast, then stir and set aside for 10-15 minutes.
• In a large bowl, mix together the flour and baking powder.
• Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and stir until nearly combined.
• Add the oil, then stir until fully incorporated.
• Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and knead for 10-15 minutes.
• Once the dough is smooth, return it to the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and leave for 1 hour until the dough has doubled in size.
• Remove the dough from the bowl and knock it back by kneading for 1 minute.
• Cut into 10 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a ball, place onto a lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap and rest for 10 minutes.
• Onto a floured work surface, flatten each ball with the palm of your hand.
• Roll out to 2 millimetres.
• Lightly brush one side with sesame oil, then fold in half and place back onto the baking sheet. Cover and rest for 20 minutes.
• Set steamer over a high heat, then steam buns for 8-10 minutes.
• The Pork: Slice the pork belly into 1 inch-thick (2 ½ cm) pieces.
• Fill a large pot with water. Put in the pork, spring onion, ginger, and cooking wine. Bring the water to boil.
• Drain the pork and discard the remaining water and vegetables. Clean and dry the pot.
• Return the pot to a high heat and add oil.
• Fry the pork until it browned.
• Add garlic, spring onion, ginger, sugar, five spice, cooking wine, and dark and light soy sauce. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
• Add the water, stir, and cover.
• Reduce to a low heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour. Check and stir every 10 minutes or so and add water if the pot is getting dry.
• Bao
• Fill one bun with one slice of pork, top with coriander, pickled cabbage, and roasted crushed peanuts.
• Enjoy!