Char siu bao

Snack

Item Rating: 64/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 260 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 6.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		619.0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		14.3 g	18%
	Saturated Fat	4.8 g	24%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		47.6 mg	15%
Sodium		952.4 mg	41%
Total Carbohydrates		95.2 g	34%
	Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	8%
	Sugars	19.0 g
protein		19.0 g	38%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		47.6 mg	3%
Iron		3.6 mg	20%
Potassium		238.1 mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

Source of Calories

Fat: 128 cal (22.0%)

Protein: 76 cal (13.0%)

Carbs: 380 cal (65.0%)

About Char siu bao

Char Siu Bao, or Chinese barbecue pork buns, originate from Cantonese cuisine, a subset of Chinese culinary traditions. These steamed or baked buns are filled with a sweet and savory mixture of roasted pork (char siu), soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sugar, all encased in soft, fluffy dough. Nutritionally, a typical steamed Char Siu Bao provides around 190–250 calories, depending on size and preparation, with approximately 6–8 grams of protein, 3–5 grams of fat, and 30–40 grams of carbohydrates. It also contains small amounts of iron, vitamin B12, and niacin from the pork, while the dough contributes minimal dietary fiber and energy from carbohydrates.

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein (6–8g per bun) from the pork, which supports muscle repair and growth.
• Provides iron (about 0.5–1mg per serving), essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
• Contains vitamin B12 from pork, critical for nerve function and red blood cell production.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains soy, gluten, wheat, potential sesame (if sesame oil is used), egg (if egg wash is applied to baked versions)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, diets allowing meat and refined carbs

Not suitable for: Vegan diets, vegetarian diets, gluten-free diets (unless made with alternative flours), low-carb diets

Selection and Storage

Store leftover Char Siu Bao in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming for the best texture.

Common Questions About Char siu bao Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of Char Siu Bao?

A standard steamed Char Siu Bao contains approximately 150-200 calories, 4-6 grams of protein, 4-5 grams of fat, and around 25-30 grams of carbohydrates. It also provides small amounts of iron and B vitamins from the pork filling and enriched flour used for the bun.

Can I eat Char Siu Bao on a keto diet?

Char Siu Bao is not compatible with a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from the flour used to make the bun. With 25-30 grams of carbohydrates per bun, it exceeds the carb limits recommended for keto dieters.

Are there any health concerns with eating Char Siu Bao?

Char Siu Bao is generally safe but can be high in sodium due to the soy sauce and other seasonings used in the pork filling, which may be a concern for those watching their sodium intake. Additionally, its refined carbohydrates and sugar content make it less suitable for those managing blood sugar levels or seeking nutrient-dense meals.

How many Char Siu Bao should I eat as a serving?

A typical serving size is 1-2 buns, depending on your dietary needs and portion preferences. Eating 1 bun provides a moderate snack, while 2 buns can form part of a meal when paired with vegetables or a light soup.

How does Char Siu Bao compare to other types of steamed buns?

Char Siu Bao differs from plain steamed buns in that it is filled with sweet and savory BBQ pork, increasing the calorie, protein, and sugar content. Compared to vegetable buns, it is higher in fat and protein but lower in fiber due to the lack of plant-based ingredients.

Data Sources & Scientific References