Asian bread has a special place in the hearts of food lovers because of its unique texture. Unlike European bread, which tends to have a hard and crispy crust, Asian sweet bread is known for its very soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor.
Here is a guide to learning more about the types and characteristics of Asian sweet bread.
Key Characteristics of Asian Sweet Bread
What makes Asian bread different from baguettes or sourdough? The answer lies in the techniques and ingredients:
- Pillow-soft texture: This bread is very soft, often stretchy (fine-grained).
- High fat and sugar content: The use of butter, sugar, eggs, and sometimes liquid milk or milk powder gives it a “heavier” and savory taste.
- Tangzhong (Water Roux) Method: Many Asian breads use a technique of cooking some of the flour and water/milk into a paste before mixing it into the dough. This technique locks in moisture, keeping the bread soft for days.
- Creative Fillings: From red beans to shredded chicken, the fillings often combine sweet and savory flavors.
Popular Types of Asian Sweet Breads
Every country in Asia has its own champion. Here are some of the most iconic ones:
1. Hokkaido Milk Bread (Japan)
This is the king of all soft breads. Using the Tangzhong technique, this bread has a strong milky aroma and a very light texture. It is usually served in the form of a thick loaf.
2. Anpan (Jepang)
One of the oldest classic breads in Japan. Anpan is a sweet bun filled with red bean paste (anko). This bread symbolizes the fusion of Western (bread) and Eastern (red beans) cultures.
3. Melonpan (Jepang) & Pineapple Bun / Bolo Bao (Hong Kong)
Although they are named after fruits, neither of these breads contains melon or pineapple. They are named for the crack pattern on top.
- Melonpan: Has a layer of crispy biscuit dough on top of soft bread.
- Bolo Bao: Similar to Melonpan, it is usually served warm with a slice of cold butter in the middle.
4. Floss Bun (Taiwan/Singapore)
Popularized by modern bakery chains, this bread is spread with mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk, then rolled up with shredded beef or chicken. The taste is a unique combination of sweet, savory, and creamy.
5. Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread
The latest trend that went viral. The bun is sliced into several pieces, filled with sweet cream cheese, then dipped in a generous amount of garlic butter sauce before being baked again.
Conclusion
Getting to know Asian Sweet Bread is not just about tasting food, but also understanding the precision techniques behind its legendary softness. The key to the deliciousness of this bread lies not only in its soft dough, but also in its high-quality filling that completes its flavor.
Don't forget to use Yu-Ai Filling products for your bread creations. There are various flavors available, ranging from green beans to durian. Yu-Ai filling paste is perfect for various types of sweet bread, steamed buns, and traditional cakes, providing a smooth texture and authentic taste.
