Sheng jian bao, Shanghai-style buns that are far less renowned than xiao long bao, each contain a ground pork patty, though you’ll occasionally find seafood or vegetable variations. These pan-fried wonders are typically studded with sesame seeds, with crispy bottoms, supple tops, and definitely have the potential to scald your tongue. Thicker skins that other dumplings or potstickers allow SJB to contain gelatinized stock that turns to steaming soup when cooking, though that element is only occasionally utilized in L.A.

The filling is normally pretty rich, so a lot of people like to incorporate tangy vinegar (and sometimes vinegar mixed with soy sauce). Either dip in the sauce or bite a hole in the SJB wall and pour the sauces directly into the core before powering through the rest. Chasing each sheng jian bao with sips of hot jasmine tea also helps cut the richness.

Keep in mind that Shanghai-style restaurants list sheng jian bao under menu translations like “pan-fried pork buns” or “pan fried bao.” Now indulge in 10 of L.A.’s best options.

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The Los Angeles bread world has changed drastically since Nancy Silverton launched La Brea Bakery in 1989. Now that company has gone national under Aryzta’s direction, and LBB’s legacy has impacted many of the city’s bakers. Of course, other bakeries and bakers have inspired and influenced a new generation. The current batch of artisan bread bakers simultaneously utilize modern traditions and pay respects to the past by using time-tested techniques and now incorporate ancient grains that impact flavor, texture, and nutrition. If you’re looking to buy a loaf for home, learn about 10 of your best bets.

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Fully embrace the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles at some of the country’s finest restaurants, spas and attractions. Even if you’re not a celebrity, you can spend two days living like one with this 48-hour guide to the finest things L.A. has to offer.

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Los Angeles is renowned as the Entertainment Capital of the World, home to celebrities and a global destination for luxury. But that doesn’t mean visitors can’t experience everything that L.A. has to offer without breaking the bank. From world-class museums to multicultural dining, read on for our 72-hour guide to visiting Los Angeles on a budget.

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