At the table
Let a small portion cool before eating; the inside may be hotter than the surface.
This version contains wheat, pork, chicken stock and lard. Other fillings may contain seafood. Recipes vary; confirm the actual ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.
The small steamed bun has a soft wrapper and moist filling and is easy to share; let it cool and cut it open before serving.
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.
Other fillings include dried shrimp, mushrooms or crab roe; added chili condiments change the heat.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory pork with soy sauce and aromatic seasonings.
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Soft, airy dough around a moist filling.
- How it’s made
- Ferment and enrich the dough, wrap the seasoned minced filling in small portions, then steam.
Other fillings include dried shrimp, mushrooms or crab roe; added chili condiments change the heat.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Sichuan.
About this regional connection
Sichuan: A Sichuan preparation.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有龙眼包子吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
A small bun with a juicy center
These small buns pair a light, fermented wheat dough with a moist savory filling. In the pork version, broth is worked into the mince and lard enriches the dough. Their modest size hides several components, so a plain-looking white bun is not necessarily a simple bread snack.