Smoked Cheese and Tomato Bao Buns
The distinctive, deep flavor of smoked cheese creates the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the roasted cherry tomatoes – together they work wonderfully in a soft, Asian bao bun. This dish is not only special but also surprisingly easy to prepare. The smoked cheese is already appetizing on its own, but serving it in a steamed bao bun takes it to a new level: the melted cheese adheres nicely to the roasted tomatoes, while the lettuce and carrots bring freshness to every bite. When the caramelized tomatoes come out of the oven and the cheese is grated over the warm ingredients, the inside of the bao becomes a real flavor explosion. This recipe is a great choice for a quick yet special weekday dinner or as a welcome dish for guests. Try it with different smoked cheeses or even in a spicy version with chili flakes!
Ingredients for this recipe
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Preparation Steps
1
Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with finely chopped garlic, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
2
Cut the carrot into thin strips (julienne), and tear the lettuce into smaller pieces. Finely grate the smoked cheese so it melts easily inside the bao buns.
3
Steam the bao buns in a bamboo steamer or over a covered metal sieve for 6–8 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during steaming to keep the steam inside.
4
Open the warm bao buns and place lettuce leaves on the bottom, then layer with the roasted tomatoes and carrots.
5
Sprinkle generously with grated smoked cheese. The heat from the other ingredients will slightly melt the cheese, giving it a pleasantly silky texture.
6
Sprinkle with black sesame seeds, garnish with microgreens, and serve immediately. The aroma of the warm, soft bao and the smoked cheese creates a truly special experience.
7
Tip: Try adding fresh basil leaves or a few drops of balsamic vinegar for a more Mediterranean flavor.
