Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns: A Flavorful Fusion Delight

Korean fried chicken has become a global sensation, and for good reason. The crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken, often coated in a spicy-sweet glaze, has won the hearts of foodies around the world.

And when you combine that with soft, pillowy bao buns, you get a mouthwatering fusion that’s both comforting and exciting.

In this article, we’re diving into how to make EPIC Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns at home. These delicious creations are perfect for a special occasion or an elevated weeknight meal.

What Are Bao Buns?

Bao buns, also known as baozi or steamed buns, are traditional Chinese steamed bread buns. They have a soft, slightly chewy texture, which makes them the perfect vessel for a variety of fillings.

Originating from China, bao buns have made their way into many cuisines worldwide, particularly in Asian fusion dishes.

When paired with Korean fried chicken, the fluffy bao bun provides a perfect balance to the spicy and crispy chicken, creating a dynamic combination that is both savory and satisfying.

The Star of the Show: Korean Fried Chicken

Before we dive into assembling the bao buns, let’s talk about what makes Korean fried chicken so special. What sets it apart from traditional fried chicken is its crispy coating. The chicken is typically fried twice: once to cook the meat and again to crisp up the skin.

This double-frying technique results in a texture that is impossibly crunchy. But that’s not all—the chicken is then coated in a rich, flavorful glaze made from gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar.

This combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors is what makes Korean fried chicken stand out.

How to Make Korean Fried Chicken for Your Bao Buns

Making Korean fried chicken for bao buns is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe that will give you crispy chicken coated in a flavorful glaze.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs of chicken wings or boneless thighs
• 1 cup of cornstarch
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil works well)

For the Korean Glaze

• 3 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of ginger, freshly grated
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken dry. This is crucial for achieving that crispy skin. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, and baking powder. Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
3. Double-Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, fry the chicken a second time for 2-3 minutes to get extra crispiness.
4. Make the Glaze: While the chicken is frying, combine all the glaze ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is fried, toss it in the glaze, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.

The Bao Buns: Soft, Steamy, and Perfect for Filling

Now that we have the fried chicken ready, let’s move on to the bao buns. While you can buy pre-made bao buns from an Asian grocery store, making them from scratch is quite simple and adds an extra level of authenticity to the dish.

Here’s how to make homemade bao buns.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1/4 cup of warm water
• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1/2 cup of milk (warm)
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, milk, and vegetable oil to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Rest the Dough: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rest for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Bao Buns: Punch the dough down and divide it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into an oval shape. Fold the dough over a piece of parchment paper, then steam it for about 10 minutes, until soft and fluffy.

Assembling the Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Once your chicken and bao buns are ready, it’s time to assemble these EPIC Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns.

1. Prepare the Bao Buns: Carefully open the steamed bao buns and lightly toast them in a hot pan for extra crispness.
2. Assemble the Buns: Place a piece of crispy fried chicken in each bao bun. Drizzle with the remaining Korean glaze and top with sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and sliced scallions for a burst of freshness.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the bao buns immediately while they’re still warm. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but they also make for excellent leftovers.

Why You’ll Love These Recipe

There are so many reasons to love these bao buns, from their irresistible crispy chicken to their fluffy steamed buns. The flavors are bold and satisfying, while the texture contrast between the crispy chicken and soft bao is truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a fun meal, these bao buns are sure to impress.

Tips for Success

• Double Fry the Chicken: This technique ensures the chicken stays crispy even after it’s coated in the glaze.
• Adjust the Glaze: If you like it spicier, feel free to add more gochujang. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of honey.
• Steam the Buns Just Right: Be sure to steam the bao buns for the right amount of time, as under-steamed buns can be dense and tough.

These EPIC Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns are a true treat for anyone who loves bold flavors and a fusion of textures. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress both your taste buds and your guests.

Try it out and get ready for an unforgettable meal!

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