Goubuli

Goubuli (狗不理包子) is a famous style of steamed baozi from Tianjin, China. The name literally translates as "dog does not listen" and is widely used as the brand name for this particular bun.

Origin and name: The origin is tied to a local legend about a shopkeeper whose dog would not listen to him, a tale that became a marketing nickname for the buns. The story is part of the brand’s lore, though exact historical details vary in retellings.

History: Goubuli appeared in Tianjin during the late Qing dynasty and grew in regional popularity through the early 20th century. The tradition expanded from street stalls to dedicated shops and, later, to modern factories. In the contemporary period, the brand is produced by Tianjin-based companies for domestic sales and international markets.

Characteristics: Goubuli buns are large, with a soft, thin, slightly glossy dough and a top finished with many delicate pleats. The traditional filling is seasoned minced pork with aromatics such as scallions, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. While pork is the classic filling, other varieties and fillings are also offered to suit different tastes.

Modern status: Goubuli is a registered brand under Tianjin-based producers, with numerous shops across China and packaged products sold abroad. The buns remain a signature item of Tianjin street cuisine and are commonly enjoyed as a snack or meal, reflecting the city’s culinary identity.

See also: Cuisine of Tianjin; Baozi.