A Short Story of Goubuli Baozi
Goubuli Baozi was created in 1858 by a man named Gao Guiyou, nicknamed "Gouzi" (Puppy). He opened a steamed bun shop in Houjiahou, Tianjin. Because his buns were so delicious and business was incredibly busy, he often had no time to chat with his customers. Over time, his regulars began to joke, "Gouzi sells buns but ignores people." The nickname "Goubuli" (Dogs ignore) eventually stuck.
What makes Goubuli Baozi truly unforgettable is not just its curious name, but its meticulous preparation techniques:
Water-beaten filling with semi-fermented dough: The filling is mixed with bone broth, allowing the juices to fully permeate the meat, ensuring a "fragrant, non-greasy" taste that holds its shape even after sitting for a while.
Eighteen pleats: The bun-making craft demands exceptional skill. Each bun must have at least 15 pleats. Made fresh and steamed on the spot, the buns feature a chewy wrapper and beautiful, chrysanthemum-like folds.