Celebrate National Bao Day with Chinese-Style Bao Buns Featuring Pickled Red Onions
August 22 is National Bao Day, the perfect excuse to enjoy soft, steamed bao buns stuffed with bold flavors. This year, try something extraordinary with the National Onion Association’s Chinese-Style Bao Bun with Pickled Red Onion recipe. It’s a flavorful twist that combines tender bao buns with the tangy, crisp bite of pickled red onions—making each bite unforgettable.
Why This Bao Bun Stands Out
Bao buns are known for their light, pillowy texture and ability to hold rich, savory fillings. The NOA’s Chinese-style version layers tender beef with pickled red onions, creating a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite. The onions aren’t just a topping—they bring brightness and a pop of color that makes this dish as visually appealing as it is tasty.
The Role of Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions are a game-changer for bao buns. Their tang cuts through rich sauces and savory fillings, while their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor. Plus, they add crunch and a vibrant hue that turns a simple bao into a restaurant-worthy creation.
Onions are naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and prebiotic fiber. The best part is they remain a flavorful and nutritious choice for any meal.
How to Make the Chinese-Style Bao Bun with Pickled Red Onion
You can find the full recipe here, but here’s the simple process:
- Steam the Bao Buns – Pre-made buns work well for quick prep, or you can make your own for a soft, fresh base. Try this DIY Bao Bun recipe.
- Prepare the Pickled Red Onions – A quick pickling method, embedded in the recipe, infuses them with tang and a hint of sweetness.
- Cook the Filling – This recipe calls for beef, though traditionally, bao buns pair with savory pork or chicken; tofu or mushrooms also work beautifully. Give yourself time, as cooking the beef slowly for a tender texture will take two hours.
- Assemble the Buns – Layer your filling, top with pickled red onions, and add a drizzle of sauce for the perfect handheld meal.
Celebrate National Bao Day with a Twist
Instead of ordinary sandwiches or sliders, celebrate National Bao Day with a recipe that highlights the bold flavor of onions in a fresh way. The Chinese-Style Bao Bun with Pickled Red Onion offers a balance of textures and flavors. That makes them ideal for lunch, a fun appetizer, or a creative dinner.
Explore this recipe and many others in the National Onion Association’s recipe bank.
This August 22, let your kitchen turn into a bao bun workshop—complete with the bright, tangy kick of pickled red onions.
