Pork Asado Siopao | Best Homemade Recipe, Ingredients, & Cooking Tips for Perfectly Fluffy & Flavorful Buns 

Have you ever sampled the renowned authentic Pork Asado Siopao from Amber Restaurant? I had the opportunity to do so, and since that experience, I have been consistently eager to enjoy it again, even at late hours. Its exceptional flavor profile renders it irresistible.

The Filipino-Chinese steamed bun is a soft, fluffy buns that encase pork meat meticulously prepared to achieve optimal tenderness. The pork is seasoned with a carefully curated blend of spices, resulting in a rich, savory flavor that harmoniously complements the subtly sweet dough encompassing it.

For those interested in recreating Amber’s signature Pork Asado Siopao at home, I will be sharing an informative blog post that details the Pork Asado Siopao, elucidating its appeal and providing guidance on how to achieve a taste similar to that found at Amber Restaurant.

Price and servings on the Amber menu:

What is Pork Asado Siopao?

Pork Asado Siopao is a Filipino-Chinese steamed bun filled with sweet and savory pork asado, wrapped in fluffy white dough and typically enjoyed as a snack or meal. It’s a popular item at Amber Restaurant, known for its tender pork and rich, umami sauce.

Amber Pork Asado Siopao Nutrition Facts

✅ Tip: This table reflects the average values for a standard Pork Asado Siopao as served at Amber Restaurant. Actual values may vary slightly based on size and ingredients used.

Why Is Pork Asado Siopao So Popular?

Pork Asado Siopao is a delicious snack that features two key elements: the buns and the flavorful fillings. The buns are soft and pillowy, providing the perfect vessel for the fillings. It’s a go-to Filipino street food and is widely available in restaurants and bakeries, yet homemade versions offer the most rewarding experience. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors in the filling makes this treat appealing to a wide range of palates, making it a popular choice among many.

Fluffy Siopao Buns :

The texture of the buns is soft and fluffy, primarily due to the steaming process. After the buns are shaped, they are steamed to ensure they remain moist and light.

Pork Asado Filling :

The real star is the pork asado, a filling made from slow-simmered pork shoulder, garlic, onions, and a fusion of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Hoisin sauce, creating layers of umami and sweetness. Its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness makes every bite satisfying.

Savory-Sweet Sauce Combination :

The sauce blend used in Pork Asado Siopao distinguishes it from others. A combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Hoisin sauce complements the pork effectively.

Customization :

When savoring Pork Asado Siopao, which features a flavorful filling of marinated pork wrapped in a soft dough, selecting the right beverage can enhance your meal. To perfectly complement the rich, savory flavors of the siopao, consider refreshing options such as freshly squeezed orange juice, which adds a burst of citrusy brightness and balances the dish’s richness. Alternatively, Tetra juice, known for its convenient packaging and variety of flavors, offers a sweet and fruity contrast that can also elevate your overall dining experience.

Amber Pork Asado Siopao Recipe at Home

Key-Ingredients :

Siopao Asado Ingredients :

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp white sugar (for the yeast)
• 2 tbsp dry active yeast
• 1 and 1/3 cups warm water
• 3 tbsp shortening or lard
• Half cup white sugar (for the flour)
• One tbsp baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the pork Asado filling :

• Half a kilo of pork shoulder (cut into small, bite-sized pieces)
• 3 tbsp cooking oil
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• One medium onion (minced)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch diluted in 1/4 cup water
• 1/8 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 to 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp Hoisin sauce (optional)
• 2 cups water

How to make Pork Asado Siopao (Step-by-Step) :

• To prepare the buns, begin with the dough. First, activate the yeast by mixing it with 2 tablespoons of sugar and warm water in a bowl. 
• Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to assist in the dough rising.
• Next, take a large mixing bowl to combine the dry ingredients: flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. 
• After mixing these ingredients thoroughly, continue by incorporating the yeast mixture to form a soft dough. Knead the dough for approximately 10 minutes until it reaches a smooth and elastic consistency.
• Once the dough is ready, grease a bowl and place the dough inside it. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and allow the dough to rise in a warm environment for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
• While the rising process, you can prepare the filling. Heat oil in a pan and sauté minced garlic and onion until fragrant. 
• Add the pork pieces and cook them for several minutes until they are browned on all sides. Then, incorporate soy sauce, sugar, oyster sauce, and Hoisin sauce into the pan.
• After adding the sauces, pour in water and let the mixture simmer on low heat for approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Occasionally, stir the mixture to prevent it from burning on the bottom. 
• Once the pork is fully cooked, add a cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, stirring until you achieve a balanced consistency, neither too runny nor overly thick. Once done, set the filling aside to cool.
• When the dough has risen, deflate it gently by punching it down. Divide the dough into equal portions, shape each portion into a ball, and then flattening it.
•  Place a spoonful of the cooled pork filling at the center of each flattened piece of dough.
• Carefully gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together at the top to seal the filling within, ensuring there are no holes for the filling to escape. Position each filled bun on a small square of parchment paper.
• Arrange the buns in a steamer basket with adequate space between them, as they will expand during the cooking process. 
• Steam the buns for about 15 to 20 minutes or until they puff up and acquire a shiny appearance.
• Finally, remove the buns from the steamer gently and serve them warm and steamy. They can be enjoyed plain or with your choice of dipping sauce on the side.

Pork Asado Siopao Under 100 Calories: Is It Possible?

A 100-calorie Pork Asado Siopao is achievable by modifying both the dough and filling. Use whole wheat or almond flour, lean pork loin or tofu, and create mini buns around 40g each. Omit calorie-dense sauces like hoisin and reduce added sugar. Replace soy sauce with low-sodium or coconut aminos for heart-health benefits. These light siopaos suit diabetic, low-carb, or weight-loss diets. While lighter than Amber’s, they preserve the essence of this Filipino favorite.

Pork Asado Siopao Calories Per 100g

Pork Asado Siopao delivers about 220–250 calories per 100 grams, depending on ingredients and preparation style. This includes steamed wheat flour dough, braised pork shoulder, and sauces like soy sauce and oyster sauce. The bun contributes complex carbohydrates, while the filling adds protein and sodium. It’s a moderate-energy food ideal for balanced Filipino-Chinese meals. Knowing the per-100g value aids portion control and meal tracking. Amber Restaurant’s serving typically weighs 120–150g, impacting total caloric intake.

Amber Pork Asado Siopao Allergen Info

Pork Asado Siopao is a popular Filipino-Chinese steamed bun filled with sweet and savory pork asado. While delicious, it can contain several common allergens.

Common Allergens in Pork Asado Siopao :

Wheat (Gluten in the Bun): The siopao dough is made with wheat flour, which contains gluten and may not be suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Soy (Soy Sauce in the Filling): The pork asado filling typically includes soy sauce, which contains both soy and wheat, unless gluten-free soy sauce is used.

Eggs (In the Dough or filling, depending on the Recipe): Some siopao recipes incorporate eggs into either the dough or the filling.

Dairy (Possible in Some Variations of the Dough): Certain siopao dough recipes may use milk or butter, which is not suitable for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.

Sesame (If Used as a Garnish or in the Sauce): Some variations may include sesame oil or seeds, which can trigger sesame allergies.

Tips for Allergen-Sensitive Individuals :

Check Labels & Ingredients: When buying from a restaurant or store, inquire about the specific ingredients used.

Use Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute rice flour or other wheat-free alternatives.

Try a Dairy-Free & Egg-Free Recipe: Use non-dairy milk and omit eggs if needed.

Avoid Soy Sauce: Consider using tamari or coconut aminos as soy-free alternatives.

Prevent Cross-Contamination: When preparing at home, ensure you use separate utensils and equipment for allergen-free cooking.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy Pork Asado Siopao while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Profile of Pork Asado Siopao

Nutritional Comparison: Pork Asado Siopao vs. Other Filipino Pork Dishes

**Quick Recipe Card: Pork Asado Siopao**

**Prep Time:** 20 mins  
**Cook Time:** 40 mins  
**Rest Time:** 1 hour  
**Yield:** 10 buns

**Ingredients:**  
- 4 cups flour  
- 2 tbsp yeast, 2 tbsp sugar  
- 1⅓ cup warm water  
- ½ kg pork shoulder  
- Garlic, onion, soy sauce, oyster sauce  
- ¼ cup sugar, hoisin (optional)  
- Cornstarch, salt, baking powder  

**Steps:**  
1. Activate yeast, mix dough.  
2. Let dough rise 1 hr.  
3. Sauté garlic/onion, add pork, sauces. Simmer.  
4. Fill dough, seal buns.  
5. Steam 15–20 minutes.

**Calories:** ~320 per bun  

FAQ’s

Conclusion

Amber Restaurant’s Pork Asado Siopao exemplifies the best of Filipino-Chinese cuisine, combining steamed buns with a rich, savory pork asado filling infused with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce. This beloved Filipino street food offers a perfect balance of fluffy texture and umami flavor, making it a staple in Filipino snacks and merienda culture. By following this authentic recipe, you can master the art of making siopao at home, bringing the warmth of traditional Filipino dishes to your kitchen. Ideal for sharing during family gatherings or celebrations, Pork Asado Siopao is a delicious way to experience the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines.