Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

If you’ve ever craved that irresistible combination of juicy, tender pork with a sweet and savory glaze, look no further than this Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork). This recipe brings all the authentic flavors of traditional Chinese barbecue into your kitchen without the fuss. Perfect for weeknights or special dinners, this dish delivers a succulent, caramelized finish every single time, guaranteed to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic flavors made simple: Experience the classic taste of Chinese BBQ pork with easy-to-find ingredients.
• Quick marinade: The pork soaks up a fast, flavorful marinade that maximizes taste in minimal time.
• Juicy and tender results: The cooking method ensures your pork stays moist and mouthwateringly tender.
• Versatile for meals: Use it in rice bowls, noodle dishes, or enjoy it straight off the skewer.
• Great for meal prep: It stores and reheats beautifully, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) lies in its straightforward and focused ingredients. Each plays a vital role in creating the dish’s signature balance of sweetness, umami, and vibrant color.

• Pork shoulder: Perfect for its fat content and tenderness, making the meat juicy and flavorful.
• Hoisin sauce: Adds sweet and tangy notes that anchor the marinade.
• Soy sauce: Brings in savory umami depth and saltiness.
• Honey: Gives that irresistible glaze and subtle caramelization.
• Chinese five-spice powder: Infuses the pork with aromatic warmth and complexity.
• Shaoxing wine or dry sherry: Helps tenderize and adds authentic flavor layers.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh aromatics that brighten the marinade.
• Red food coloring (optional): For that trademark vibrant red hue without affecting taste.

Variations for Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

The best part about Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) is how you can tweak it to your liking. Whether adjusting sweetness or swapping ingredients for dietary choices, the recipe welcomes creativity.

• Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or flakes for a spicy kick.
• Health-conscious option: Use lean pork loin instead of shoulder to reduce fat content.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute pork with thick slices of seitan or tempeh and adjust marinade accordingly.
• Smoky flavor: Incorporate a small amount of smoked paprika or cook the pork on a grill for that charred aroma.
• Sweetness adjustment: Swap honey for brown sugar or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

How to Make Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red food coloring in a bowl. Whisk everything together until well blended to create a flavorful, balanced marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork

Slice the pork shoulder into long strips about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Place the meat in a ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, allowing the pork to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Tray

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Line a baking tray with foil and place a rack on top. This setup helps the pork cook evenly without sitting in its juices, creating the perfect glaze.

Step 4: Roast the Pork

Arrange the marinated pork strips on the rack. Reserve the leftover marinade for basting. Roast the pork for about 25 to 30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with the leftover marinade, until edges are caramelized and pork is cooked through.

Step 5: Caramelize the Glaze

For that classic sticky, shiny finish, switch your oven to broil. Broil the pork for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning, until the glaze is bubbling and perfectly caramelized.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain, and get ready to enjoy your beautifully homemade Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the pork overnight whenever possible.
• Use a meat thermometer: Cook pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure juiciness without overcooking.
• Reserve marinade for basting: Never baste with raw marinade before boiling or cooking it to avoid contamination.
• Broil carefully: Keep a close eye during the broiling step to achieve perfect caramelization without burning.
• Let pork rest: Resting the meat keeps juices locked in for tender bites.

How to Serve Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions instantly brightens the dish and adds fresh crunch to balance the rich, sweet pork glaze.

Side Dishes

Serve char siu alongside steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or fluffy steamed buns for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs wonderfully with lightly dressed cucumber salad to cut through the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) into bao buns, char siu fried rice, or toss it in a noodle bowl with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of soy sauce. The possibilities are endless and delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover char siu completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze sliced or whole char siu in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving excessively, as it can dry out the pork.

FAQs

Can I use another cut of pork for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its juiciness, pork loin or tenderloin can work for a leaner result but may be less tender.

Is red food coloring necessary?

No, red food coloring is optional. It gives that traditional bright red look but doesn’t impact flavor at all.

How long should I marinate the pork?

Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for rich, infused flavor.

Can Easy Char Siu be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check your hoisin sauce label to ensure it’s gluten-free.

What can I do if I don’t have a broiler?

You can finish the pork in a hot oven or quickly pan-sear to caramelize the glaze, but keep an eye to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) is one of those dishes that makes weeknight dinners feel special without hours of effort. Its irresistible sweet-and-savory glaze, juicy texture, and versatility mean you can enjoy authentic Chinese barbecue flavors from your own kitchen anytime. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a new favorite in your home!

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