At the table
Open the bun carefully and let the hot filling cool before taking small bites. Ask about chili before ordering.
Contains wheat and soy. Tofu does not establish vegetarian or vegan suitability: check fats, stock and other seasonings.
For children who can chew the wrapper and tolerate the chosen chili level, offer small cooled bites; check the hot filling first.
Recipes vary. Ask the restaurant about ingredients and serving before you order.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Chili and preserved vegetables vary. Some versions use daoducai leaves, others chopped zhacai stems. The dough may be raised with yeast or an old-dough starter.
Typical ingredients
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Spicy, aromatic and savory from chili, scallion and hot oil over soft tofu; preserved leafy greens add salty depth.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Soft thin steamed bun skin around tender, juicy tofu filling.
- How it’s made
- Mix soft tofu with scallions, chili, preserved leafy greens and seasonings; add hot oil, wrap in thin wheat dough and steam until cooked.
Chili and preserved vegetables vary. Some versions use daoducai leaves, others chopped zhacai stems. The dough may be raised with yeast or an old-dough starter.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Zhejiang.
About this regional connection
Zhejiang: Associated with Jiande, Hangzhou, Zhejiang.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有建德豆腐包吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
A spicy start in western Hangzhou
Jiande’s breakfast bao puts tofu at the center, with scallion and chili bringing fragrance and heat. The soft filling contrasts with a thin, springy steamed wrapper. Preserved vegetables add another layer of flavor: daoducai leafy greens and zhacai mustard stems appear in different preparations.