Introduction
Chinese burgers, also known as Roujiamo (肉夹馍), are a popular street food originating from Shaanxi province. They consist of slow-cooked, flavorful meat stuffed into a crispy yet chewy flatbread. Often compared to Western hamburgers, Chinese burgers have a unique texture and taste that make them a must-try dish.
Popular Variations of Chinese Burgers
- Roujiamo (肉夹馍) – The classic Shaanxi-style burger with braised pork or beef.
- La Zhi Roujiamo (辣汁肉夹馍) – A spicy version with chili-infused sauce.
- Yangrou Roujiamo (羊肉肉夹馍) – Uses braised lamb instead of pork.
- Vegetarian Roujiamo – Features tofu, mushrooms, or plant-based proteins.
Ingredients for Traditional Roujiamo
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) pork belly or beef
- 3 cups water
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, sliced
- 1 star anise
- 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon oil
For the Bread (Mo):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Filling
- Heat oil in a pot and sear the meat until browned.
- Add garlic, ginger, and spices, then stir-fry until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and salt, then add water.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2 hours until the meat is tender.
- Remove the meat, shred it, and mix it back into the sauce.
2. Make the Bread (Mo)
- Mix flour, salt, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Gradually add warm water and knead into a soft dough.
- Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Divide into small balls, then flatten into discs.
- Cook in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Assemble the Chinese Burger
- Slice the bread open but not all the way through.
- Stuff with the shredded meat filling.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chinese Burgers
- Use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time.
- Experiment with different fillings like lamb, chicken, or tofu.
- Add toppings like pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, or spicy sauce.
Conclusion
Chinese burgers offer a delicious and satisfying meal with rich flavors and a unique texture. Whether you try the traditional Roujiamo or experiment with variations, this street food classic is sure to impress!
