A Guide to Buying Frozen Bao Buns Online in the UK

The appeal of a warm, fluffy steamed bun is undeniable. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat, a savoury snack or a quick and satisfying part of a meal, having a stash of frozen bao buns in your freezer is a game-changer. They offer a taste of authentic East Asian cuisine without the fuss, ready to be steamed or microwaved in minutes.

But with a growing number of options available, how do you choose the right ones? This guide is designed to help you navigate the world of frozen steamed buns, from classic fillings to modern twists, so you can find the perfect match for your tastes. We’ll cover what to look for and share some of our top recommendations you can buy online in the UK.

How to Choose Your Ideal Frozen Steamed Buns

Finding the right bao bun comes down to a few key considerations. Keeping these points in mind will help you select a product that you'll genuinely enjoy.

1. Exploring the Fillings: Sweet vs. Savoury

The heart of any bao bun is its filling. The variety is vast, but they generally fall into two categories:

• Sweet Buns: These are perfect for breakfast, as a dessert or an afternoon snack. Classic fillings include smooth and sweet red bean buns (dousha bao), earthy taro buns or creamy custard. They offer a comforting and gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.
• Savoury Buns: Often enjoyed as part of a larger meal or as a substantial snack, savoury buns can be filled with anything from seasoned pork to vegetables. A particularly popular choice in the UK is the indulgent salted egg custard bun (liu sha bao), which strikes a unique balance between sweet and savoury with its rich, molten centre.

2. Cooking Method and Convenience

Most frozen bao buns are designed for convenience. The most common and traditional cooking method is steaming, which yields a perfectly soft, moist and pillowy texture. You can use a traditional bamboo steamer, a metal steamer insert in a pot or even a dedicated electric steamer.

For ultimate speed, many buns can also be heated in the microwave. While the texture might be slightly chewier, it’s a great option when you’re short on time. Some people also use an air fryer, which can create a slightly crispier exterior. Always check the packaging for the recommended heating instructions for the best results.

3. Reading the Label for Authenticity

When you want to buy dim sum UK-style products, checking the ingredients can give you clues about the product's authenticity and flavour profile. For example, a traditional Korean hoppang might use a specific type of red bean paste, while a classic Cantonese liu sha bao should feature salted duck egg yolk in its ingredient list. Reading the label also ensures you are aware of any allergens and can choose products that fit your dietary needs.

Frozen Bao Bun Recommendations

Here are a few standout options that deliver on flavour, texture and convenience, available for delivery across the UK.

Samlip Red Bean Bun (85g x 3)

• Why It Stands Out: As Korea’s original mass-produced steamed bun, the Samlip Hoppang is a true classic. These red bean buns are filled with a smooth, rich red bean paste that has a balanced sweetness, avoiding the cloying taste some sweet buns can have. The dough is exceptionally soft and fluffy when steamed.
• Pros:
  • Classic, authentic Korean hoppang flavour.
  • Conveniently portioned at 85g per bun.
  • Versatile for breakfast, a snack or dessert.
• Who is it for: Anyone looking for a comforting, classic sweet steamed bun. It’s an excellent introduction for those new to Asian buns online and a nostalgic favourite for those already familiar with them.

FRESHASIA Bun Salted Egg Custard 360g

• Why It Stands Out: This is a superb example of the highly sought-after liu sha bao. The magic is in the filling: a molten, "flowing sand" custard made from salted duck egg yolk. It delivers a complex, savoury-sweet flavour that is incredibly moreish. The use of coconut milk adds a subtle richness without dairy.
• Pros:
  • Authentic molten custard filling.
  • Rich and complex savoury-sweet taste.
  • A true dim sum restaurant experience at home.
• Who is it for: Dim sum aficionados and adventurous foodies who appreciate the unique flavour of salted egg yolk. If you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself, these are an excellent choice.

FRESHASIA Taro Buns 390g

• Why It Stands Out: For those who enjoy a more subtle, earthy sweetness, these taro buns are a fantastic option. The filling is made from high-quality taro, giving it a smooth texture and a distinct, nutty-vanilla flavour. The dough is soft and complements the fragrant filling perfectly.
• Pros:
  • Natural, earthy sweetness from real taro.
  • A pleasant alternative to bean or custard fillings.
  • Soft, aromatic dough.
• Who is it for: Fans of taro-flavoured desserts and drinks or anyone looking to try a different kind of sweet steamed bun that isn't overly sugary.

Exploring Other Bun Varieties?

While our focus here has been on delicious Asian steamed buns, the world of buns is wonderfully diverse. If your culinary curiosity extends to traditional British baked goods, especially those with a hint of spice and fruit, you might be interested in exploring our selection of hot cross buns.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frozen Bao Buns

What is the best way to cook frozen bao buns?

For the softest, fluffiest texture that mimics freshly made buns, steaming is the recommended method. Place the frozen buns in a steamer over boiling water for about 10-15 minutes. For a quicker alternative, you can microwave them according to the package directions, usually by wrapping them in a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

What is 'liu sha bao'?

Liu sha bao translates to "flowing sand bun." It's a type of Cantonese dim sum bun famous for its liquid centre. The filling is made from a rich custard containing salted duck egg yolks, which gives it a unique savoury-sweet flavour and a molten texture when heated.

Can you buy authentic Asian buns online in the UK?

Yes, absolutely. It is now easier than ever to find a wide range of authentic frozen bao buns online. Retailers offer everything from Chinese-style dim sum buns to Korean hoppang, delivering high-quality, convenient options straight to your home so you can enjoy them anytime.