History of Baos (Gua Bao)

There are many types of baos out there that have found its place in various Asian cultures. Not to be confused with the cha siu bao, boazi, xiao long bao, tangbao, or sheng jian bao, the gua bao is about 3 inches wide and looks like a jaw-shaped mini sandwich. It is also known as the Taiwanese hamburger.

The gua bao has been said to have had its origins in Fujian (a Chinese province), where the bulk of Taiwanese people immigrated from. It is now a staple street food in Taiwan that is stuffed with braised pork belly, pickled greens, peanuts, and coriander. It is often eaten in Northern Taiwan during the Weiya Festival that occurs at the end of the year.

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