Siopao Asado Recipe
Siopao Asado recipe, a beloved Filipino comfort food, is a soft and fluffy steamed bun filled with a sweet-savory pork or chicken filling. It’s the perfect grab-and-go snack, often paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. This dish is inspired by Chinese baozi, but Filipinos have made it their own by infusing local flavors into the filling.
A Brief History Of Siopao Asado Recipe:
The name “siopao” is derived from the Chinese word “bao,” meaning bun. Introduced to the Philippines during Chinese trade and settlement in the pre-colonial era, it quickly became a staple street food. Over time, Filipinos have adapted the recipe, with variations like Asado (sweet-savory filling) and Bola-Bola (meatball filling), making it a household favorite.

Siopao Asado Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Steamer or large pot with a steaming rack
- Rolling Pin
- Baking paper or wax paper (cut into 12 squares)
- Cooking spoon
- Medium skillet
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Asado Filling:
- 1 lb pork or chicken, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (diluted in 2 tablespoons water)
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the DoughIn a small bowl, combine warm water, 1 teaspoon sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms.Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Cook the Asado FillingHeat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.Add the pork or chicken and cook until lightly browned.Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sugar.Pour in water and bring to a simmer.Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cool.
- Assemble the SiopaoPunch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.Roll each piece into a ball and flatten into a circle using a rolling pin.Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center and pinch the edges together to seal.Place the sealed bun seam-side down on a square of baking paper.
- Steam the SiopaoArrange the buns in the steamer, leaving space between each.Steam over medium heat for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during steaming.Serve warm with dipping sauce, if desired.
Video
Similar Recipes:
Bola-Bola Siopao: Siopao with meatball filling.
Chicken Curry Siopao: A spicy twist with a curry-flavored filling.
Char Siu Bao: Cantonese-style buns with Chinese barbecue pork.
Vegetarian Siopao: Filled with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, tofu, and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siopao Asado Recipe:
1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, pre-made dough can save time, but homemade dough ensures freshness and better flavor.
2. Can I freeze Siopao?
Yes, freeze after steaming. Reheat by steaming for 5–7 minutes or microwaving with a damp paper towel.
3. Can I make Siopao without a steamer?
Use a pot with a rack and lid. Ensure buns don’t touch water during steaming.
4. What meat works best for the filling?
Pork belly or shoulder is ideal, but chicken thighs also work well.
5. How do I ensure fluffy dough?
Use fresh yeast, let the dough proof properly, and avoid over-kneading.
6. Can I make the dough gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour blends and adjust the water amount as needed.
7. Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes, substitute the meat with mushrooms, tofu, or jackfruit.
8. Why is my Siopao dough dense?
Under-proofing or using expired yeast can cause dense buns.
9. Can I add eggs to the filling?
Yes, boiled quail or chicken eggs are popular additions.
10. How long can Siopao be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Enjoy your homemade Siopao Asado!
Conclusion:
Making Siopao Asado at home is a rewarding experience. With its fluffy dough and rich, savory-sweet filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with different fillings to add variety and keep the tradition alive.
YouTube Video credits:
Savor Easy
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