Halloumi Bao Buns with Zucchini & Tahini Drizzle

• •8 pieces steamed bao buns, store-bought
• •250 gram halloumi cheese, sliced into 8 even pieces
• •2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced into rounds or half-moons
• •1 tablespoon soy sauce
• •1 teaspoon sesame oil
• •1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• •1 clove garlic, minced
• •0.5 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •3 tablespoon tahini
• •1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• •0.5 clove garlic, minced (for drizzle, optional)
• •2 tablespoon cold water
• •0.3 teaspoon salt
• •2 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
• •1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• •0.5 teaspoon chili flakes

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Tahini Drizzle: In a small bowl, combine tahini, fresh lemon juice, 0.5 clove minced garlic (if using), and 0.25 teaspoon salt. Whisk vigorously, gradually adding 2-4 tablespoons of cold water until the mixture is smooth and has a pourable consistency. Set aside.

2. 2

   Marinate Zucchini: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, 1 clove minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the thinly sliced zucchini and toss gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Let marinate for 5-10 minutes.

3. 3

   Cook Zucchini: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large non-stick pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated zucchini in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sauté for 3-4 minutes per side, until the zucchini is tender-crisp and has developed a slight char. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. 4

   Cook Halloumi: In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the halloumi slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until each slice is golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove from pan and set aside.

5. 5

   Steam Bao Buns: While the halloumi cooks, steam the bao buns according to package instructions. This typically involves steaming them in a bamboo steamer over simmering water for 5-7 minutes, or microwaving briefly as directed.

6. 6

   Assemble the Bao Buns: Gently open each steamed bao bun. Place 2 slices of the warm, cooked halloumi inside. Top generously with the sautéed zucchini.

7. 7

   Serve: Drizzle generously with the prepared tahini sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, toasted sesame seeds, and a pinch of chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Chef's Tips

• 💡Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the halloumi or zucchini; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and proper caramelization.
• 💡Adjust the consistency of your tahini drizzle by adding more or less cold water. It should be thick enough to cling to the ingredients but thin enough to pour easily.
• 💡For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the zucchini slices instead of pan-frying them.
• 💡Serve the bao buns immediately after assembly to enjoy the warmth of the steamed buns and cooked ingredients.