Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu

Name: Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup hoisin sauce; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons Chinese Shaoxing wine; 1 tablespoon five-spice powder; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional); 2 pounds pork shoulder, sliced into strips; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Discover the savory delight of Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu, a flavorful dish that brings the essence of Chinese street food to your kitchen.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:42:29.046Z

Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu is a beloved dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Its sweet and savory flavor profile, combined with a tender texture, makes it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly sweet and savory flavor
Perfectly tender and juicy pork
Great for meal prep or special occasions

      

A Taste of Authenticity

Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu is not just a meal; it's an experience that encapsulates the rich culinary traditions of China. This dish, revered in street food markets and restaurants alike, offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that is hard to resist. In every bite, you can taste the depth of the marinade, which is a harmonious balance of ingredients that truly brings the pork to life.

The unique method of marinating and roasting the pork gives it a distinctively caramelized exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. This technique is often passed down through generations, making it a cherished recipe in many families. With the right approach, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen, impressing family and friends with your culinary skills.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're planning a casual dinner or a festive gathering, Char Siu is an excellent choice. Its versatility allows it to shine as a main dish or a protein addition to various sides, making it suitable for any meal. Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even in bao buns for a delightful twist.

Moreover, this dish is ideal for meal prep. You can marinate the pork in advance, allowing the flavors to intensify, and then bake it when you're ready to eat. Leftovers, if there are any, can be used in sandwiches, salads, or noodle dishes, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Char Siu, consider using pork shoulder, which is well-marbled and stays moist during cooking. The fat renders beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the dish. If you prefer a leaner cut, pork loin can be substituted, but be careful not to overcook it to prevent dryness.

Basting the pork with the leftover marinade during baking adds an extra layer of flavor and helps create that signature sticky glaze. For an authentic touch, finish the dish with a brush of sesame oil; it not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely sheen to the finished product.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Chinese Shaoxing wine
1 tablespoon five-spice powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional)

For the Pork

2 pounds pork shoulder, sliced into strips
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Green onions for garnish (optional)

Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl and add the pork. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, five-spice powder, minced garlic, and red food coloring if using. Whisk until well combined.

Marinate the Pork

Add the pork shoulder strips to the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the Pork

Place the marinated pork on a baking rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, then turn the pork and bake for another 30 minutes, basting with leftover marinade halfway through.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, brush with sesame oil and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve garnished with green onions, if desired.

Serve the Char Siu with steamed rice or in a bao bun for a delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions

Char Siu can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it sliced alongside fluffy white rice and your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Alternatively, consider using it as a filling for steamed buns, which offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

For a more casual approach, slice the pork and serve it in a sandwich with pickled vegetables and a drizzle of sriracha for a delicious fusion twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this dish to your taste preferences.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Char Siu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its flavor and moisture, reheat it in the oven or on a stovetop skillet rather than the microwave, which can dry it out. Simply warm it on low heat, covered, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated pork before cooking. This allows you to have an easy meal prep option on hand. Just ensure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, and you can enjoy the same delicious flavors whenever you desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use pork loin or tenderloin, but the cooking time may vary.

→ Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

No, it’s optional. It gives the pork a traditional look but doesn’t affect the flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover Char Siu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the marinated pork?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork before cooking for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before cooking.