Introduction
Roujiamo, often called the “Chinese burger,” is a delicious and flavorful street food originating from Shaanxi province. This traditional dish consists of slow-cooked, spiced meat stuffed inside a crispy yet chewy flatbread, making it a perfect handheld meal.
Why You’ll Love Roujiamo
- Rich and flavorful filling – Slow-cooked, tender meat infused with aromatic spices.
- Crispy yet soft bread – The unique flatbread balances texture and taste.
- Authentic Chinese street food experience – A taste of Shaanxi cuisine at home.
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) pork belly or beef (for halal version)
- 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
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Filling
- Heat oil in a pot and sear the meat until browned on all sides.
- Add garlic, ginger, star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, cinnamon, and bay leaves. Stir 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. Let it absorb the flavors.
2. Make the Bread (Mo)
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Slowly add warm water, kneading until a soft dough forms.
- Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into small balls, then flatten into discs.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and cook each disc for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Assemble the Roujiamo
- Slice the bread open, but not all the way through.
- Stuff with the shredded meat filling.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Roujiamo
- Use a pressure cooker – Cuts cooking time for the meat.
- Try different meats – Beef or lamb work well for variations.
- Make ahead – Bread and filling can be prepped in advance.
Conclusion
Roujiamo is a must-try dish that combines rich, slow-cooked meat with freshly baked flatbread. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, this Chinese burger is sure to impress!
