Siopao, or more formally known as baozi, is a surprisingly popular and omnipresent food in the Philippines and Thailand (salapao). Literally meaning “steamed buns”, these treats are composed of steamed flour with meat filling.
It is said that the military strategist Zhuge Liang created these steamed buns as an offering to the gods. They were designed to look like human heads. Gruesome, yes, but this was almost 1,800 years ago. Now, the siopao is enjoyed as a snack usually served with tea.
In the Philippines, the history of the siopao started with the entrepreneur Ma Mon Luk. He traveled to the Philippines in 1918 to escape a broken heart and became the perpetrator of the siopao, siomai and mami business.
Today, the siopao can be found in most Chinese restaurants and sidewalk vendors. It’s a tasty treat for those on-the-go and for people who enjoy a simple yet delicious meal in a budget.
This is still our usual siopao. Only, It has Ube (tastes exactly like Ube Halaya) inside.
Delectable. So good, I had 4 of this. Let's eat! ♣
