Savor Sheng Jian Bao: Easy Pan-Fried Pork Buns Recipe

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Sebastian Recipes Team

There s a special energy that comes with making Sheng Jian Bao, the delightful pan-fried pork buns that fill the kitchen with the unmistakable aroma of warm dough and savory filling. I remember when I first tried these at a bustling street food stall during the Lunar New Year celebrations. The crispy bottom, enhanced by a juicy, flavorful center, made me realize that nothing compares to the magic of handmade versions.

Fast forward to today, I m excited to share a recipe that brings together tradition, comfort, and community, perfect for your next gathering. Whether it s a festive holiday or a cozy Sunday, making these little buns is an experience that turns routine cooking into a joyful celebration. Plus, they re surprisingly easy to prepare at home, allowing you to impress friends and family with your culinary skills without stressing in the kitchen!

This recipe isn t just about the taste; it encapsulates the warmth of shared moments, filled with laughter, dipping sauces, and the joy of delicious food. Let s roll up our sleeves and dive into this tasty adventure!

Why is Sheng Jian Bao a must-try?

Deliciously Flavored: The balance of pork and scallions creates a savory explosion in each bite!
Easy to Master: With just a few steps, even novice cooks can nail this recipe.
Versatile Filling: Feel free to customize the meat or veggies based on your taste.
A Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings and guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more!
Satisfying Crunch: The crispy bottom gives a delightful contrast to the juicy center.

Get ready to impress with homemade goodness, and if you re looking for more inspiration, check out our guide on Lunar Year celebrations!

Sheng Jian Bao Ingredients

Gather these essentials to create the mouthwatering dumplings you ll love.

For the Dough

• All-purpose flour a key ingredient for a tender bun texture.
• Granulated sugar adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Active dry yeast crucial for that lovely, airy rise in your buns.
• Kosher salt enhances all the tastes, bringing everything together.
• Water needed to hydrate the dough for the perfect consistency.

For the Filling

• Ground pork provides a juicy and flavorful base for the filling.
• Large egg helps bind the mixture together for a delightful texture.
• Soy sauce infuses a savory depth that ties the flavors together.
• Toasted sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma that enhances the filling.
• Vegetarian oyster sauce introduces a touch of umami for an unforgettable taste.
• Dashi powder brings a subtle seafood essence; you can also use kelp powder for a vegetarian option.
• Grated fresh ginger adds a refreshing warmth to the filling s flavor profile.
• Ground white pepper for a gentle heat that complements the other ingredients.
• Chopped scallions give a fresh, crispy crunch that elevates each bite.

For Cooking

• Olive oil helps achieve that golden crispy crust on the bottom.
• Chili oil or soy sauce perfect for dipping into the savory goodness of your Sheng Jian Bao.

Get ready to cook these traditional and delightful Sheng Jian Bao, perfect for any celebratory occasion!

How to Make Sheng Jian Bao

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Gradually add water while using a chopstick to mix until the dough appears flaky, about 2 minutes. Knead until smooth, roughly 4 minutes, then cover and let rest for 1 hour.

2. Prepare Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the ground pork, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce, dashi powder, ginger, and white pepper until everything is beautifully combined. This will create a savory filling bursting with flavor!

3. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has rested and is soft, roll it on a floured surface into an 18-inch-long cylinder. Cut the dough into 12 evenly-sized pieces (about 1 1/2 inches each) for perfect buns.

4. Roll Out Circles: Take each piece of dough and roll it into a ball. Then, with a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a 3 1/2-inch round, ensuring the center stays slightly thicker about 1/8 inch for that delightful filling retention.

5. Fill and Seal: Place a pinch of scallions in the center of each round and add a heaping tablespoon of the pork filling. Use your thumb and index finger to pinch, fold, and twist the dough to seal. Repeat until all dough and filling are used.

6. Pan-Fry Buns: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully lay the pork buns in the skillet, flat side down, ensuring they re spaced about 1 inch apart. Cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and they lift easily from the pan.

7. Steam to Perfection: Add enough water to cover the buns halfway up their sides. Immediately cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook over medium-high heat until the water evaporates and a thermometer reads 160 °F in the center, about 15 minutes. Transfer the buns to a plate and serve warm with chili oil or soy sauce for dipping.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sheng Jian Bao?

Creating a delightful meal around these savory buns can transform your dining experience into something truly special.

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing balance with crunchy cucumbers and a light sesame dressing that brightens each bite.
• Spicy Szechuan Noodles: These flavorful noodles offer a spicy kick that complements the mildness of the buns perfectly.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh, green element to your plate, providing a lovely contrast to the rich flavors.
• Egg Drop Soup: A warm, cozy soup with silky egg ribbons makes an excellent starter that warms the heart.
• Chili Oil Dip: Pair your Sheng Jian Bao with a homemade chili oil dip for an extra layer of flavor and spice!
• Sweet Sticky Rice: This sweet side can easily balance the savoriness of the pork buns, ending your meal on a delightful note.
• Ginger Tea: A warm cup of ginger tea not only soothes but also aids digestion, making it a perfect drink pairing with your meal.
• Sesame Balls: Finish off your dinner with these sweet, chewy sesame balls that echo the rich flavors of your main dish.

Gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy a lovely spread that elevates the simple joy of eating together!

Sheng Jian Bao Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make these buns your own!

• Pork Alternatives: Swap ground pork for chicken, beef, or turkey for a lighter option. Each brings a unique flavor twist that can make your buns excitingly different.
• Vegetarian Version: Use minced mushrooms or a veggie mix as a filling for a delicious meat-free alternative. Don t forget to add some tofu for extra protein!
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the filling for an unexpected heat that can awaken the taste buds. Just adjust the amount to your heat tolerance!
• Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the filling for a fresh, aromatic flavor boost that will enhance every bite. It can reinvent the traditional profile!
• Savory Sauces: Experiment with hoisin or Sriracha sauce as a dip instead of soy sauce, offering a richer taste and extra layer of flavor for your buns.
• Alternative Oils: Replace olive oil with sesame oil for frying or drizzling on top. It ll add an additional nutty fragrance that pairs beautifully with the pork filling.
• Filling Extras: Toss in finely diced water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for an extra crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft bun texture.
• Dipping Sauces: Create a sweet chili sauce mixed with vinegar as a dip, offering a balance of sweetness and tang to complement the rich and savory flavors of the buns.

Make Ahead Options

These Sheng Jian Bao are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling (ground pork, egg, sauces, and seasonings) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep the dough fresh, you can also mix and knead it, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before rolling and shaping. When you re ready to enjoy your homemade buns, simply allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, shape, fill, and follow the cooking instructions. This way, you ll have delightful, freshly made Sheng Jian Bao with minimal time spent in the kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Sheng Jian Bao

Fridge: Store leftover Sheng Jian Bao in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked buns in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, steam frozen buns directly from the freezer for about 15 minutes or pan-fry them in a skillet with a little oil and water until heated through.

Room Temperature: If freshly made, enjoy Sheng Jian Bao at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigeration.

Expert Tips for Sheng Jian Bao

Knead Effectively: Ensure your dough is kneaded well for a smooth, elastic texture. The right consistency prevents breakage while filling.

Avoid Overfilling: When adding the pork filling, don t be tempted to overstuff! A heaping tablespoon is perfect; too much can cause the buns to burst.

Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat during cooking. Too high can burn the bottoms before the filling is cooked through, while too low can leave them soggy.

Seal Properly: Make sure to pinch and twist the dough tightly to seal. A good seal keeps the filling juicy and flavorful during cooking.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh scallions and ginger elevate the flavor of your Sheng Jian Bao, making your buns unforgettable!

Sheng Jian Bao Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ingredients for Sheng Jian Bao?
Absolutely! For the best Sheng Jian Bao, choose high-quality ground pork with a bit of fat for juiciness. Fresh scallions should be bright green and crisp, while ginger should be firm and free of dark spots. Opt for all-purpose flour that s unbleached for the best dough texture.

How should I store leftover Sheng Jian Bao?
Leftover Sheng Jian Bao can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let them cool completely before placing them in the container to keep them fresh and avoid sogginess.

Can I freeze Sheng Jian Bao?
Yes, you can! For freezing, place uncooked Sheng Jian Bao in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, steam them directly from the freezer for about 15 minutes or pan-fry until heated through.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find the dough is sticky, don t worry! Just sprinkle a little more flour onto your work surface while kneading. This should help you achieve a smooth, elastic texture. Remember, having a slightly tacky dough is normal, but it shouldn t stick excessively to your hands or the surface.

Are there dietary considerations for Sheng Jian Bao, such as allergies?
Absolutely! If you are concerned about allergies, be sure to substitute any ingredients as necessary. For example, use gluten-free flour if you have a gluten intolerance. Make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free, too, since it often contains wheat. You can easily adjust the filling to accommodate different dietary preferences, such as using ground turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.

How can I improve the crunchiness of my Sheng Jian Bao?
To achieve that perfect golden-brown crust, ensure your oil is hot before adding the buns. Also, don t forget to cover the pan with a lid when adding water; this creates steam, which helps cook the filling while allowing the bottom to fry to a crispy finish. Enjoy the delightful crunch of your homemade Sheng Jian Bao!