Frozen Bao Buns: A Foolproof Guide to Choosing the Right Ones

Want to enjoy an authentic Chinese steamed bun at home without spending hours in the kitchen? That's the promise of frozen bao, the perfect solution for quick and comforting meals. But with ever-expanding freezer aisles, how do you sort through the options and find the true gems?

To help you make an informed choice, we've scrutinised the key criteria: from the filling's ingredients to the ease of preparation, here is our guide to choosing the best frozen dim sum.

Buyer's Guide: 3 Criteria for Choosing the Best Frozen Bao

Before we get to our top picks, here are the key things to check on the packaging, whether you're shopping in-store or online.

1. The Filling: The Heart of the Bao

A bao's quality hinges on its filling. The first indicator of quality? The percentage of the main ingredient (pork, shrimp, etc.). The higher it is, the more generous and flavourful the filling will be.

• For a classic pork bao, look for a substantial meat content (around 19-20%) and the presence of flavour-enhancing ingredients like shiitake mushrooms.
• For a chicken bao, a product with over 25% chicken is often an excellent choice.
• For a shrimp bao, a high shrimp percentage (around 30%) is a sign of a premium product.

Also, take a look at the ingredients list: opt for natural flavourings and steer clear of long lists of additives.

2. The Dough: A Soft and Airy Texture

The dough of a good bao bun should be soft, airy, and just elastic enough after steaming. It's hard to judge before tasting, of course. Trust brands that specialise in frozen Asian cuisine: their expertise is often a guarantee of quality. Some products even stand out with naturally coloured dough (using spinach or carrot juice), making them even more visually appealing.

3. Preparation: Ready in 15 Minutes Flat

The main advantage of frozen baozi is convenience. Most quality brands can be steamed directly from frozen, with no thawing required. It should take no more than 10 to 15 minutes. This information, always found on the packaging, promises a quick and delicious weeknight meal.

Frozen Bao Bun Recommendations

Keeping these criteria in mind, here are three products that caught our attention for their quality and taste.

FRESHASIA Pork Bao 400g

What sets it apart This bao delivers the classic, comforting taste of a traditional Chinese breakfast. Its generous filling combines 19% pork and shiitake mushrooms for a rich umami flavour. The soft, fluffy dough makes it a reliable choice.

Highlights

• A generous filling with an authentic taste.
• Simple and quick to steam from frozen.
• A soft and pleasant dough texture.

Who is it for? For purists seeking the authentic taste of pork bao. Perfect for breakfast or a light meal with soup or a salad.

FRESHASIA New Orleans-Style Chicken Thigh Bun 510g

What sets it apart A modern and bold take on the bao, inspired by the flavours of New Orleans. The very generous filling, with 27.68% chicken, is seasoned with a blend of spices, paprika, garlic, and onion. The result is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a hint of spice.

Highlights

• An original flavour that's off the beaten path.
• High chicken content for a truly substantial filling.
• A generous size, ready to steam in minutes.

Who is it for? Perfect for adventurous eaters and those who enjoy sweet and savoury flavours with a touch of spice. An excellent option for a lunch on the go or a satisfying snack.

Guanhua Yipin Two-Tone Shrimp and Vegetable Bao 360g

What sets it apart This bao captivates at first sight with its elegant appearance: a two-tone dough marbled with spinach and carrot juice. The filling lives up to the visuals, with an impressive 30% shrimp mixed with crisp vegetables for a fresh and flavourful result.

Highlights

• Very high shrimp content for an intense seafood flavour.
• An original and appetising look.
• Cooks quickly in 8 to 10 minutes from frozen.

Who is it for? For seafood lovers and anyone looking to impress guests with a presentation worthy of a dim sum restaurant. Ideal as an appetiser or a unique starter.

Want to Explore Other Flavours?

Our selection is just a taste! The world of bao is vast. To discover other fillings (vegetarian, beef...) or explore different types of steamed buns, our full catalogue is sure to satisfy all your cravings.

Discover our full range of steamed buns

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do you cook frozen bao?

Steaming is the gold standard, and it's very simple! Place the still-frozen bao in a steamer basket (lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking) over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 10 to 15 minutes, until the dough has puffed up and the filling is hot. Always follow the instructions on the package.

What's the difference between a bao and a baozi?

Good question! The two terms are often used interchangeably. To be precise, "Bao" (包) means "to wrap" and can refer to the bun in a general sense. "Baozi" (包子) specifically refers to the filled, sealed bun. But in everyday use, don't worry: both words refer to the same delicious filled steamed bun.

Where can I find good frozen Asian food online?

Online Asian supermarkets, like Joybuy, are a treasure trove for finding frozen baozi and other gems. They offer a curated selection of brands that honour traditional recipes. It's your guarantee of an authentic culinary experience, delivered right to your door.