Easily recognized by its distinctive red color and famous for its sweet and salty flavor with a hint of spice, Char Siu Pork is a beloved dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a taste of Chinese BBQ at home, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With its tender texture and rich flavors, Char Siu Pork stands out as a must-try dish that’s surprisingly simple to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, you’ll have delicious Char Siu Pork ready in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory marinade creates an unforgettable taste that perfectly complements the pork.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, in a bao bun, or as part of a larger meal to suit any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to delight family and friends, making it ideal for gatherings or special occasions.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasoning levels to match your personal taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make the perfect Char Siu Pork, having the right tools will make the preparation process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Oven-safe wire rack
- Medium-sized bowl
- Large zipper-top bag
- Silicone brush (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for cooking the pork while collecting drippings.
- Oven-safe wire rack: Elevates the pork for even cooking and allows excess fat to drain away.
- Medium-sized bowl: Perfect for mixing the marinade ingredients thoroughly before applying them to the pork.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup shoyu
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons sherry
- ½ teaspoon red food coloring
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon Chinese five spice
For the Pork
- 2 pounds pork butt
How to Make Char Siu Pork
Step 1: Prepare the Char Siu Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Mix until well combined and set aside. This sauce will infuse your meat with incredible flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork
Trim away any large chunks of fat from the pork butt. Cut it into long strips, approximately 1-2 inches wide. This helps ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Marinate the Pork
Place the pork strips into a large zipper-top bag. Pour the char siu marinade over the pork. Gently massage the meat and marinade together until they are well combined. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor infusion.
Step 4: Bring to Room Temperature
Before cooking, take out the marinated pork and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps in achieving a more even cook.
Step 5: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that beautiful caramelization on your Char Siu Pork.
Step 6: Set Up for Baking
Place an oven-safe wire rack over a baking sheet. Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off. Arrange the pork strips on top of the rack. To prevent burning drippings, add about ¼ cup of water into the baking sheet below.
Step 7: Baste Regularly
Every 15-20 minutes during cooking, baste your pork with extra marinade using a silicone brush or spoon. This adds layers of flavor and helps keep it moist.
Step 8: Bake Until Done
Bake your Char Siu Pork for about 50-60 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 9: Broil for Extra Caramelization
For an additional layer of flavor, turn on your broiler on low after baking. Broil for about 5 minutes but stay close by; this can burn quickly!
Step 10: Rest and Slice
Once done, let your pork rest for about 10 minutes before slicing horizontally into thin strips. Enjoy your homemade Char Siu Pork!
How to Serve Char Siu Pork
Char Siu Pork is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a main dish or incorporate it into other recipes, its sweet and savory flavors will shine.
As a Main Dish
- Serve the slices of Char Siu Pork alongside steamed rice or fried rice for a classic Chinese meal.
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables to create a balanced plate filled with nutrition and color.
In Sandwiches
- Use Char Siu Pork as filling in bao buns for a delightful handheld treat.
- Create a fusion sandwich by layering sliced Char Siu on a baguette with pickled veggies and cilantro.
In Noodle Dishes
- Slice and toss the pork into chow mein or lo mein for an added depth of flavor.
- Add pieces of Char Siu to ramen for a savory broth experience.
In Salads
- Chop the pork into pieces and toss it in a fresh salad with sesame dressing for a refreshing dish.
- Combine with Asian slaw for a crunchy texture that complements the meat’s richness.
As an Appetizer
- Serve thin slices of Char Siu Pork on skewers as finger food at parties.
- Pair with dipping sauces like hoisin or sweet chili sauce for an exciting starter.
How to Perfect Char Siu Pork
Achieving the perfect Char Siu Pork requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Marinate Overnight: Allowing the pork to marinate overnight enhances flavor absorption, making each bite more flavorful.
- Use High-Quality Meat: Selecting fresh pork butt ensures tender and juicy results, vital for this dish’s success.
- Baste Frequently: Regular basting while baking adds moisture and creates that signature glossy finish on the surface.
- Monitor Temperature: Using a meat thermometer helps you achieve the perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Broil for Caramelization: A quick broil at the end creates beautiful caramelized edges that elevate the appearance and taste of your Char Siu.
- Rest Before Slicing: Letting the pork rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in moist slices when cut.
Best Side Dishes for Char Siu Pork
Complementing your Char Siu Pork with the right side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that pair beautifully with this flavorful pork.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce, providing balance to your plate.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: A light vegetable choice that adds crunch and freshness against the tender pork.
- Egg Fried Rice: This savory side is packed with flavor, making it an excellent accompaniment to Char Siu.
- Chinese Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the pork.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp provide texture contrast and delightful flavor.
- Hot & Sour Soup: This soup adds warmth and spice, creating an inviting start to your meal when served before the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Char Siu Pork can be simple, but certain errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring marinade time: Skipping the overnight marination leads to less flavor. Always allow the pork to soak in the char siu sauce for at least 12 hours.
- Not trimming fat: Leaving large chunks of fat on the pork may result in greasy meat. Trim excess fat for a better texture and taste.
- Overcooking the pork: Cooking beyond an internal temperature of 145F can dry out your Char Siu Pork. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Skipping the broiling step: Neglecting to broil at the end can prevent caramelization. Broil briefly for a perfectly glazed finish.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap sauces or spices can ruin the dish. Invest in high-quality shoyu and hoisin sauce for authentic flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Char Siu Pork in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Char Siu Pork
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Char Siu Pork can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Char Siu Pork
- Oven: Preheat to 350F, place pork on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Slice pork into smaller pieces, place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Slice and reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Char Siu Pork?
Char Siu Pork is a Chinese BBQ dish known for its sweet and savory flavor profile. It’s typically made with marinated pork that is roasted until tender.
How do I know when my Char Siu Pork is done?
Check for an internal temperature of 145F using a meat thermometer. This ensures it’s cooked properly while retaining moisture.
Can I use other cuts of meat for Char Siu?
Yes! While pork butt is traditional, you can also use pork loin or even chicken as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What should I serve with Char Siu Pork?
Char Siu Pork pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or noodles. You can also include it in sandwiches or salads for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
Char Siu Pork is not only delicious but also versatile. Its sweet and savory taste makes it perfect for various meals. Feel free to customize the marinade or try different meats. Enjoy this delightful dish that brings joy to any dinner table!
Char Siu Pork
Char Siu Pork is a delightful Chinese BBQ dish that marries sweet and savory flavors with a hint of spice, resulting in tender, mouthwatering meat. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or satisfying your cravings for authentic Asian cuisine right at home. With its rich red color and glossy finish, Char Siu Pork not only tastes great but also looks stunning on any plate. Surprisingly simple to prepare, this dish involves marinating pork butt in a flavorful sauce overnight, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Serve it over steamed rice or use it in bao buns for a versatile meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup shoyu
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons sherry
- ½ teaspoon red food coloring
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon Chinese five spice
- 2 pounds pork butt
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients until well combined.
- Trim excess fat from the pork butt and cut into long strips.
- Marinate the pork by placing it in a zipper-top bag with the marinade; refrigerate overnight.
- Let marinated pork sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and set up a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Remove pork from marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and place on the rack.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, basting every 15-20 minutes.
- Broil on low for an additional 5 minutes for extra caramelization.
- Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
