Siopao Bola-Bola (Filipino Steamed Pork Buns)

Steps

1. In a bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in warm milk. Let sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix and knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
5. Meanwhile, make the bola-bola filling: combine ground pork, shrimp, green onions, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, pepper, cornstarch, and water. Mix well.
6. Punch down the risen dough and divide into equal portions. Flatten each piece into a round disc.
7. Place a portion of the pork filling, a piece of salted egg, and a piece of Chinese sausage in the center of each dough round.
8. Gather the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a bun.
9. Place each bun on a small square of parchment paper and let rest for about 15-20 minutes.
10. Steam the buns over boiling water until the dough is cooked through and fluffy.
11. For the asado sauce, combine water, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and star anise in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
12. Dissolve cornstarch in a little water and stir into the sauce to thicken. Simmer until glossy.
13. Serve the steamed siopao buns warm with the asado sauce on the side.