Filipino Chinese Bear Claw

Ingredients

The Filipino Chinese Bear Claw differs from the original American Bear Claw in terms of the filling and flavor profile. While the American version typically features a sweet almond paste filling, the Filipino Chinese adaptation incorporates minced pork, shrimp, and vegetables, creating a savory and umami-packed filling. Additionally, the Filipino Chinese Bear Claw is seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and aromatic spices, giving it a distinct Asian flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Bear Claw, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 1/2 cup (100g) minced pork 1/2 cup (100g) minced pork
• 1/2 cup (100g) shrimp, peeled and minced 1/2 cup (100g) shrimp, peeled and minced
• 1/4 cup (50g) carrots, finely diced 1/4 cup (50g) carrots, finely diced
• 1/4 cup (50g) green onions, finely chopped 1/4 cup (50g) green onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the minced pork, minced shrimp, diced carrots, chopped green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and five-spice powder. Mix well to combine.
4. 4.
   Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a circle.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the filling mixture onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal, shaping it into a claw-like form.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F). Carefully place the bear claws into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
7. 7.
   Remove the bear claws from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
8. 8.
   Serve the Filipino Chinese Bear Claws hot and crispy. They can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced pork — Make sure to use lean minced pork for a healthier option. If desired, you can substitute it with minced chicken or beef.
• Shrimp — Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used. Ensure they are peeled and deveined before mincing.
• Five-spice powder — If you don't have five-spice powder, you can create a substitute by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a flaky pastry, make sure the butter is cold and cubed before incorporating it into the flour mixture.
• When frying the bear claws, maintain a consistent oil temperature to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
• Serve the Filipino Chinese Bear Claws with a dipping sauce made from a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili for an extra kick of flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier filling, add a small amount of minced chili pepper to the filling mixture.
• These bear claws are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Filipino Chinese Bear Claws as a delicious appetizer or snack. They can also be served as part of a dim sum spread or as a main course accompanied by steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Filipino Chinese Bear Claws on a platter, showcasing their claw-like shape. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch of visual appeal.