Chinese BBQ Pork, also known as Char Siu, is a beloved dish known for its shiny, caramelized exterior and succulent, flavorful interior. This classic Cantonese recipe involves marinating slices of pork in a sweet and savory sauce infused with ingredients like hoisin, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder, giving it a distinctive red hue and a rich, aromatic flavor. Traditionally roasted in the oven or grilled over an open flame, Char Siu is enjoyed in various dishes—from being sliced and served over rice, tucked into steamed buns (bao), or used as a flavorful addition to fried rice or noodles. The key to perfect Char Siu lies in the balance of flavors in the marinade and achieving the ideal char on the pork, which enhances its smoky sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into long strips about 2-3 inches thick
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring (optional for traditional color)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Directions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, sugar, red food coloring (if using), and sesame oil. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are fully blended.
- Marinate the Pork:
- Place the pork strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, turning the pork occasionally to marinate evenly.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and place a rack on top. This setup will allow the pork to cook evenly without sitting in its own juices.
- Roast the Pork:
- Remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting. Place the pork strips on the rack. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Baste the pork with the reserved marinade and turn the strips over. Continue roasting for another 25 minutes or until the pork is just cooked through and the edges are beginning to char.
- Glaze and Finish:
- In the last 5 minutes of roasting, brush the pork with additional honey to create a glossy finish. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness and helps achieve that signature char.
- Rest and Slice:
- Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice the pork into thin pieces against the grain for the best texture.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chinese BBQ Pork warm with steamed rice, in steamed buns, or as part of a larger meal featuring other Chinese dishes.
Chinese BBQ Pork is both a versatile and striking dish that brings a touch of authenticity and lots of flavors to the table. Its unique taste and texture make it a favorite among those who appreciate the nuances of Chinese culinary traditions.
