Unforgettable Savory Pork Buns

Have you ever bitten into a steamed bun so perfectly soft and fluffy, with a filling so juicy and savory it stops you in your tracks? That’s the magic we’re creating today. This recipe unlocks the secret to incredible homemade pork buns, a beloved comfort food that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to master. Forget complicated techniques; this filling comes together in under an hour and relies on a brilliant two-part method that guarantees a moist, flavorful center every time. The taste is a deep, satisfying savoriness, known as “jiang xiang,” that comes from rich, fermented bean pastes. This is the kind of recipe that will make your kitchen smell amazing and have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share these with you! Let’s gather our ingredients. The key to the irresistible flavor lies in a few special pantry items, but don’t worry if you can’t find them all—I’ve included some easy and accessible substitutions that work beautifully. This recipe makes enough filling for approximately 16-20 buns, depending on their size. For the Filling: Ground Pork: 1 lb (or about 500g). A mix with around 20% fat is ideal for a juicy result. Scallions: 1 large bunch (about 4-5 stalks), finely chopped. Ginger: 1-inch piece, peeled and finely minced. For the Aromatic Water: Water: ½ cup Star Anise: 2 whole pods Sichuan Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon (optional) Bay Leaf: 1 leaf For the Savory Sauce: Sweet Bean Paste: 2 tablespoons. Soybean Paste: 1 tablespoon. Thirteen-Spice Powder: 1 teaspoon. Substitutions & Notes: Sweet Bean Paste & Soybean Paste: Can’t find these? No problem! Hoisin sauce is an excellent substitute. Use 3 tablespoons of Hoisin sauce in place of both pastes for a similar sweet and savory depth. Thirteen-Spice Powder: This is a fragrant…