Name: Char Siu Pork (Chinese BBQ Pork)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 2895 min
Ingredients: 1.5 tbsp brown sugar (white also ok); 0.25 cup honey; 0.25 cup hoisin sauce; 2 tbsp light soy sauce (or all purpose soy); 1 tbsp soy sauce (just all purpose); 1 tsp Chinese five spice powder; 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola); 2 tsp red food colouring (optional); 1.2 - 1.5 kg pork scotch fillet (or pork shoulder); 2 tbsp Extra Honey

Introduction to Char Siu Pork

What is Char Siu Pork and why should you make it at home?

Char Siu Pork is a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine, known for its sweet, sticky glaze and juicy, tender texture. This mouth-watering dish features marinated pork that's roasted to perfection, often served with rice and greens. The name "Char Siu" literally translates to "fork roasted," referring to the traditional method of cooking the meat on skewers over an open flame.

But why should you embark on creating this classic at home? First, making Char Siu Pork allows you to enjoy an authentic taste of Chinese BBQ right in your own kitchen. Plus, you can customize the marinade to suit your palate by adjusting the sweetness or spiciness. In addition, preparing this dish from scratch gives you the satisfaction of mastering a culinary tradition that has flavors rich in history.

Many home cooks shy away from this recipe, thinking it requires specialized equipment or ingredients. The truth is, with a simple oven and common pantry staples, you can whip up this stunning dish, impressing friends and family alike. Check out the Noti Chef for more inspirations on Asian cooking!

Ingredients for Char Siu Pork

Essential marinade components

Making Char Siu Pork starts with the right marinade. You'll want to gather:

Brown Sugar: This gives a touch of sweetness and caramelization.
Honey: Adds extra stickiness and a rich flavor.
Hoisin Sauce and Soy Sauce: Essential for that authentic savory backdrop.
Chinese Five Spice Powder: This delivers a warm, aromatic kick that is a must-have.
Vegetable Oil: Helps with moisture and flavor while cooking.

Optionally, if you want that classic red color, add some red food coloring. It’s not necessary for flavor, but it does give that restaurant-style look!

For more on soy sauce types and how they enhance your dish, check out Serious Eats.

Pork selection tips

When selecting pork for your Char Siu, the ideal choices are:

Scotch Fillet (also known as Pork Neck): This cut is juicy and perfect for slow cooking.
Pork Shoulder: Offers great flavor and tenderness if trimmed properly.

Avoid Pork Tenderloin for this recipe; it's too lean. You want the richness that comes from some fat to give that authentic BBQ vibe. For deeper insights, visit The Meatwave for expert tips on pork cuts.

For the best results, look for pieces that are well-marbled for flavor and moisture. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step preparation of Char Siu Pork

Char Siu Pork, or Chinese BBQ Pork, is a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness. Follow this step-by-step guide to help you recreate this mouthwatering dish in the comfort of your kitchen.

Marinate the Pork

Start by preparing the marinade, as this is where the magic begins. In a bowl, mix together:

1 ½ tablespoon brown sugar (white is fine too)
¼ cup honey
¼ cup hoisin sauce
2 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 tablespoon all-purpose soy sauce
1 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder
1 tablespoon oil (a neutral oil works best)

Tip: If you want that eye-catching red hue, consider adding a couple of teaspoons of red food coloring. This is optional but gives it that authentic look!

Once the marinade is prepared, cut your beef into two long strips to ensure it absorbs all the flavors. Place the beef strips into a sealable bag or a stain-proof container, pour the marinade over them, and allow them to marinate in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours. Don’t rush this—this is crucial for achieving that deep flavor!

Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). While it warms up, you can prepare your roasting setup.

Prepare for Roasting

Line a baking tray with aluminum foil. This makes for easy cleanup later! Place a wire rack on top of the tray to let the heat circulate around the meat while roasting.

Remove your marinated beef from the fridge, and save that delicious marinade for later. Place the beef on the rack, ready for its time in the oven.

Roast and Baste the Pork

Roast the beef in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. While it's roasting, take the reserved marinade and pour it into a saucepan, adding an extra tablespoon of honey. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat until it becomes syrupy, about two minutes.

Once the first roasting period is up, take the beef out of the oven and baste it generously with the prepared marinade. Turn the beef over and baste the other side too.

Final Roasting for Perfection

Return the beef to the oven and roast for an additional 30 minutes, basting midway through. After this, brush with the marinade once more, turning the beef again. Now, roast for another 20 minutes. If you notice any charring, just cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes. The aim here is for the beef to become beautifully caramelized and sticky.

Once done, allow the Char Siu Pork to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juiciness. Serve it up with rice and some steamed Chinese greens for a delightful meal that will impress anyone who tries it!

For an in-depth guide on all things Chinese cooking, you might enjoy Serious Eats for more tips and tricks!

Variations on Char Siu Pork

Char Siu with Chicken

If you're looking to switch things up but love that sticky glaze of Char Siu, why not try it with chicken? Simply substitute the pork with boneless chicken thighs or breasts. The marinating process remains the same, but keep an eye on cooking times—chicken generally cooks faster. You’ll still get that delightful flavor infused into the meat, making it perfect for rice bowls or as a filling for buns.

Vegetarian Alternatives

For a plant-based twist, consider using seitan or tofu to replicate the texture of Char Siu Pork. Marinate and cook them just like you would with pork. Another great option is using eggplant; when roasted, it absorbs the marinade beautifully and adds a unique flavor profile. These alternatives not only satisfy hunger but also cater to diverse dietary needs, making them a hit at any gathering.

Explore more ideas for meat alternatives on The Spruce Eats.

Cooking tips and notes for Char Siu Pork

Importance of marinating time

Marinating is crucial for Char Siu Pork—the longer, the better! Aim for at least 24 hours, but a full 48 hours will take the flavor to the next level, allowing the pork to absorb those sweet and savory marinades deeply. This not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat, giving you that juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re short on time, three hours is the absolute minimum, but consider planning ahead!

Understanding food colors and their uses

When it comes to food coloring, you may notice that some recipes call for red food coloring. While it’s optional, this step gives your Char Siu Pork that iconic reddish hue you see in restaurants. If you want a more authentic touch, look for red bean curd at Asian markets, which can be an excellent natural substitute.

For further reading on the significance of colors in food, check out this informative article from Food52.

Serving suggestions for Char Siu Pork

Pairing with rice and veggies

To create a delicious, well-rounded meal, serve your Char Siu Pork alongside steamed rice and a medley of fresh vegetables. Jasmine or sticky rice perfectly complements the sweet, sticky glaze. For veggies, consider colorful stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, or bok choy to add crunch and a nutritious boost. Drizzling a little soy sauce or sesame oil over the vegetables enhances their flavor, making your meal even more delightful.

Creative uses for leftovers

Don't let any leftovers go to waste! Slice the Char Siu Pork and toss it into a vibrant stir-fry, or incorporate it into a luscious fried rice. You can even layer it on a hearty sandwich or wrap for a quick and tasty lunch. The options are endless – think Char Siu tacos or a savory soup. Looking for more inspiration? Check out this comprehensive guide on leftover ideas to elevate your meals.

Time Breakdown for Char Siu Pork

Preparation Time

Get ready for deliciousness in just 5 minutes! Simply mix your marinade, prepare your pork, and let the flavor journey begin with minimal effort.

Cooking Time

Sit back and relax while your oven works its magic. The cooking will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with that classic Char Siu flavor.

Total Time

With marinating included, the total time comes to 2 days and 1 hour and 35 minutes. Don’t worry; most of this is hands-off time while your Char Siu Pork absorbs the delicious marinade overnight.

For tips on marinating efficiency, check out this guide on marinating techniques.

Nutritional Facts for Char Siu Pork

Calories

Enjoying Char Siu Pork adds up to about 438 calories per serving. This makes it a satisfying choice for your meals without breaking the calorie bank, perfect for a festive dinner or a casual weeknight feast.

Protein Content

Packed with approximately 48 grams of protein, this dish is an excellent source for those looking to boost their intake. High-protein meals can support muscle growth and enhance overall satiety, making them a fantastic option for active individuals.

Sodium Levels

While Char Siu Pork is delicious, it does contain 852 milligrams of sodium per serving. It's good practice to monitor your sodium intake, especially if you're watching your blood pressure. Consider pairing it with fresh vegetables to create a balanced plate!

For more on nutrition and healthier cooking tips, check out resources like Healthline and Eat Well. They provide valuable information to help maintain a balanced diet while enjoying your favorite dishes.

FAQs about Char Siu Pork

Can I use different types of beef?
While this Char Siu Pork recipe is traditionally made with pork, you can experiment by using tender cuts of beef, like flank steak or sirloin. Just remember that cooking times may vary, and beef will generally take less time to marinate and cook, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

What do I do if I have leftovers?
Lucky you! Leftover Char Siu Pork can be a game-changer for your meals. Consider slicing it thinly for stir-fries, tossing it into fried rice, or even making a delicious sandwich. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, so you can enjoy this delightful dish multiple times.

How should I store Char Siu?
To keep your Char Siu Pork fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. If you want to preserve it for longer, pop it in the freezer; just make sure to label and date it. Freezing makes it easy to enjoy later!

For more tips, check out Serious Eats for expert advice on meat storage and leftovers.

Conclusion on Char Siu Pork

In summary, Char Siu Pork is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Chinese barbecue right into your kitchen. With its juicy, tender meat and that irresistible sticky glaze, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Don't forget to enjoy it with rice and greens!