Introduction
Bao, with their soft, fluffy exteriors and fragrantly spicy middles, are a culinary delight that originated in China. Also known as baozi, these Chinese filled buns come in various forms, often steamed to perfection. In this culinary journey, we explore the art of creating bao filled with a fragrant shredded chicken curry, an exquisite blend of flavors that dance on the taste buds.
Section 1: Unveiling the Aromas – Fragrant Shredded Chicken Curry Filling
Bao Filling Ingredients
- 3 tbsp. oil
- 2 small shards cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. nigella seeds
- 70 g onion, thinly sliced
- 1/8 tsp. fenugreek seeds
- 200 g boneless skinless chicken thigh, cut into chunks
- 1/2 tbsp. garlic paste
- 1 tsp. turmeric
- 1 tsp. dried red chilli flakes
- 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 200 ml water
- 1 tbsp. coriander, finely chopped
- 1 green finger chilli, thinly sliced
Preparing the Filling
To embark on the journey of creating the perfect bao, we start by crafting a fragrant shredded chicken curry filling. Sautéing spices, searing chicken, and allowing the flavors to meld together create a curry that is both aromatic and rich. The addition of coriander and green chilli brings a fresh and vibrant element to the filling.
Section 2: Mastering the Bao Dough
Bao Dough Ingredients
- 150 g flour
- 1/2 tsp. yeast
- 1/2 tsp. sugar
- 1/2 tbsp. oil
- 70 ml water
Crafting the Bao Dough
The heart of any bao lies in its dough. With a few simple ingredients – flour, yeast, sugar, oil, and water – one can embark on the path of creating the perfect vessel for the flavorful filling. Whether using a stand mixer or kneading by hand, the goal is a smooth and elastic dough. Allowing the dough to prove in a warm place for two hours is the key to achieving the desired softness.
Section 3: Bringing it All Together – Bao Assembly
Assembling the Bao
The assembly of bao is an art that requires patience and precision. Rolling out the thinly kneaded dough, creating a flavorful pocket with the fragrant shredded chicken curry, and pleating and sealing – each step contributes to the final masterpiece. The satisfaction of lifting the lid off the steamer and seeing these bao puffed up and fragrant is unparalleled.
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Dough Preparation: After the dough has proved, it is turned onto a floured surface and kneaded by hand before being rolled out into a thin rectangle.
- Filling Creation: The fragrant shredded chicken curry, cooled and refrigerated, awaits its destiny as the heart of the bao.
- Pleating and Sealing: The artistry begins as each disc of dough is filled, pleated, and sealed to create a series of delicate pleats around the flavorful core.
- Final Touch: Reshaping the bao into a circle, they are placed on a sheet of greaseproof paper and left to prove for an additional 20 minutes.
Section 4: The Culmination – Steaming and Serving
Steaming the Bao
The final act in this culinary masterpiece is the steaming process. Placing the filled bao buns in a hot steamer, a tantalizing aroma fills the air as they puff up to perfection. Steaming for 15 minutes ensures that the bao are cooked to perfection, ready to be served with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoyed as they are.
Conclusion
In the world of culinary delights, crafting fragrant shredded chicken curry bao is a journey worth undertaking. From the aromatic filling to the soft and fluffy dough, each element plays a crucial role in creating a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary. So, don your apron, gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the art of bao making.