National Bao Day

National Bao Day is celebrated every year on August 22. This delightful day is dedicated to appreciating the baozi, also known as bao or hot Asian buns. These tasty dumplings come in various flavors and fillings, ranging from savory options like pork and Chinese sausage to sweet delights such as custard and chocolate. National Bao Day not only offers a chance to indulge in these delicious buns but also encourages people to explore the rich cultural heritage behind them.

Baozi are a staple in Asian cuisine with deep historical roots in China, evolving from the older term ‘mantou,’ used historically to refer to buns. Legend attributes the creation of mantou to the ancient Chinese military strategist Zhuge Liang. Over time, ‘bao’ came to specifically denote buns with fillings, distinguishing them from the plain mantou buns. The popularity of baozi in the United States soared with the opening of the first Wow Bao restaurant in Chicago in 2003, spearheading its spread across the country and ultimately inspiring the establishment of National Bao Day by Wow Bao in 2017.

History of National Bao Day

The journey of bao begins in ancient China, with the earliest forms of bao believed to date back to around 400 B.C. The term ‘baozi’ became widely used by 100 A.D., clearly distinguishing filled buns within culinary nomenclature. The introduction of bao to the American food scene marked a new chapter in its global journey, beginning with the establishment of the first Wow Bao in Chicago in 2003. This was a significant step in making bao a beloved food choice in the U.S., appealing to a diverse audience with its variety of fillings.

The formal recognition of this culinary gem came in 2017, when Wow Bao initiated the celebration of National Bao Day to honor the widespread popularity of the bao. This day has since become a moment to celebrate not just the food itself but also the rich cultural heritage it represents. It serves as a platform for food enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the variety and versatility of bao, making it a day of culinary celebration and cultural appreciation.

Why is National Bao Day important?

National Bao Day transcends the mere act of eating; it’s a celebration of cultural diversity and culinary innovation. Baozi encapsulate a significant element of Chinese culinary traditions, offering a window into the rich tapestry of Asian food culture. This day provides an opportunity to celebrate and educate others about the historical and cultural significance of bao, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation through food.

• Culinary exploration: Bao offers a canvas for an array of fillings, encouraging culinary creativity and experimentation.
• Cultural appreciation: Celebrating bao helps spread knowledge about Chinese culinary traditions and their evolution.
• Community engagement: Making and eating bao can be a communal activity, fostering connections and shared experiences.
• Dietary versatility: With options ranging from meat-filled to vegan, bao is accessible to people of various dietary preferences.
• Educational opportunity: National Bao Day is an excellent chance for people to learn about the history and making of bao, enriching their culinary knowledge.

How to celebrate National Bao Day?

Celebrating National Bao Day can be as simple or as involved as you choose. It’s a perfect opportunity to delve into the delicious world of bao through various activities that highlight both the culinary and cultural aspects of these buns.

• Visit a local restaurant that specializes in bao and sample different flavors to fully experience the variety offered by this dish.
• Try making your own bao at home. Online tutorials and recipes can guide you through the process of crafting these delicious buns.
• Organize a bao-making party with friends or family. It’s a fun way to socialize and learn a new skill together.
• Explore the history and cultural significance of bao by reading books or watching documentaries about Asian cuisine.
• Share your bao experiences on social media to spread the word and encourage others to join in the celebration.

National Bao Day Dates Table

Reviewed by HolidayToday Staff