My first encounter with this subtly sweet, cottony delicacy took place while I was vacationing in Thailand. A famished me, waiting for the inter-city bus from beautiful Pattaya to bustling Bangkok wandered around the food stalls at the bus stand. I was intrigued by these freshly steamed pork buns. I wasn't aware at the time what they were called. The Bao was the size of my PALM - soft, with a measly, but tasty filling.
Bao, or traditionally known as Baozi are of Chinese origin. Legend has it that it was invented by Chinese scholar and military strategist, Zhuge Liang. Mankind owes this man one! In China, baos are available in two sizes. The bigger ones make for a great take-away snack and the smaller ones are what we find in restaurants. Various forms of the bao have been adopted all over South-East Asia.
Closer home, The Fatty Bao, Mumbai is hosting the 'Bao Wow Festival'. The menu flaunts thirteen varieties of baos, with the quirkiest stuffings and two Ballantine-esque cocktails. The restaurant portrays a very fun, creative, Kung Fu Panda inspired ambience. The place can get full in a jiffy and hence, making a reservation is highly recommended. Save yourself a bummer. The service staff is always happy to provide recommendations if you find yourself spoilt for choice. You'd be surprised to see how fast your grub arrives.
Closer home, The Fatty Bao, Mumbai is hosting the 'Bao Wow Festival'. The menu flaunts thirteen varieties of baos, with the quirkiest stuffings and two Ballantine-esque cocktails. The restaurant portrays a very fun, creative, Kung Fu Panda inspired ambience. The place can get full in a jiffy and hence, making a reservation is highly recommended. Save yourself a bummer. The service staff is always happy to provide recommendations if you find yourself spoilt for choice. You'd be surprised to see how fast your grub arrives.
