Everyone knows the joy of biting into a warm, pillowy bao bun. This Asian delicacy has taken the culinary world by storm. And yet, how often are you left wondering about the perfect side dish to balance your bao experience? If you find yourself in such situation, this is the blog post for you. Let us explore together 15 healthy and innovative side dishes to enhance your indulgence in bao buns. According to a survey by YouGov in 2019, over 35% of people frequently struggle to find nutritious side dishes when trying new cuisines. This guide aims to change that statistic, one delicious bite at a time.
Fresh Cucumber Salad
The vibrant crunch of a cucumber salad can bring a refreshing note to your bao meal. Thinly sliced cucumbers combined with thinly sliced red onions in a tangy vinegar dressing create a balanced blend of flavors that will truly heighten your senses.
Edamame Beans
Edamame beans are the underappreciated heroes of Asian cuisine. Boiled and lightly salted, these protein-rich little gems offer a textural contrast to the softness of bao buns.
Pickled Daikon Radish
The crisp, tangy bite of pickled daikon radish is sure to complement the flavor profile of most bao fillings. Try making a pickling solution with rice vinegar and sugar for an authentic taste.
Stir-Fried Garlic Spinach
A dose of greens never hurts. Stir-fried garlic spinach is not only a flavorful side dish but also nutrient-rich, helping you balance your meal without compromising on taste.
Spicy Kimchi
If you are a spice lover, then you will fall head over heels for the taste of spicy kimchi with your bao buns. The fermented cabbage with its tangy spiciness brings a whole new dimension to your meal.
Sweet Potato Fries
Adding sweet potato fries to your bao bun meal brings a warm, hearty touch. These nutrient-packed fries give an innovative twist to western convenience.
Sesame Broccoli
No list of Asian-inspired side dishes would be complete without the mention of a dish containing broccoli. This sesame broccoli is blanched and tossed in a simple sesame oil dressing that makes it simply irresistible!
Asian Slaw
A salad with thinly shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers dressed in a soy-vinegar mixture can elevate your bao bun experience. Additionally, it offers a rainbow of vitamins and antioxidants.
Rice Paper Rolls
Rice paper rolls filled with fresh veggies, herbs and maybe some tofu or shrimp provide a healthy yet satiating addition to your meal. What is more, expect an explosion of freshness in every bite!
Pan-Fried Tofu
Pan-fried tofu can add some protein heftiness without eating into the spotlight of your star – the bao bun. Use a sweet-soy glaze to up the ante!
Braised Bok Choy
This classic Chinese dish is inarguably conducive to enhancing your dining experience. The soft yet crunchy texture of braised bok choy offers a pleasant contrast to the fluffy buns.
Red Bean Soup
Nothing like a sweet ending to complete your meal. A warm bowl of red bean soup can provide a healthful dessert option which veers from the usual decadence.
Green Tea Mochi
Immerse in the soft and chewy green tea mochi after savoring your bao buns. The subtle sweetness and unique texture make this a thrilling culinary adventure.
Ginger Scallion Noodles
If you are looking for something hearty alongside your bao, ginger scallion noodles provide the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition.
Chilled Mango Sago
A chilled mango sago pudding can give a sweet and refreshing change of pace after your bao bun delight.
The Last Word
Your endeavor to try new cuisines should never compromise on nutritional value. So, embrace these side dishes with open arms to ensure that your bao bun experience becomes not just scrumptious but also healthful. Experiment, enjoy, and do not be afraid to create your own unique combinations!
