If you’re on the lookout for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish to impress your family or friends, Char Siu is the answer! This Chinese barbecue pork dish is not only delicious but also versatile and a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a cosy family dinner during a busy week, Char Siu fits the bill perfectly.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Char Siu
Perfect for Families
Char Siu is ideal for any family meal. With its sweet and savoury glaze, this dish pleases even the pickiest eaters. The fact that it’s easy to prepare means you can whip it up even on the busiest days. I’ve made Char Siu many times for family gatherings, and it always vanishes within minutes!
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is Char Siu delicious, but it’s also made with simple ingredients that pack a nutritional punch. Pork tenderloin is a lean meat option, providing protein without too much fat. Combined with soy sauce and honey, you get a dish that’s rich in flavour but also has some health benefits—especially with the addition of fresh green onions as a garnish.
Flexibility
One of the best aspects of Char Siu is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or budget. Whether you want to serve it with bao buns, rice, or vegetables, Char Siu can be dressed up or down. It’s a fantastic dish for experimenting with different flavours, making it a staple in my kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
To create an authentic Char Siu, you only need a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- For the Char Siu:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) pork shoulder or pork belly (cut into strips)
- 2 tbsp honey (for glaze)
- For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp five-spice powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp red food coloring (optional, for traditional hue)
Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is the star of this dish. It’s a lean cut that cooks quickly and remains tender when prepared correctly. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken breast or beef could work, though they’ll need different marinades to achieve the same flavour profile.
Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce adds depth and sweetness to the marinade. If you’re out of hoisin, you can use a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and honey as a substitute, but the flavor won’t be completely the same.
Chinese Five Spice Powder
This essential blend adds an aromatic quality to your Char Siu. If you can’t find it, consider mixing equal parts of ground star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and ginger.
Ingredient Preparation
Step 1 – Marinate the Pork
Begin by combining all the marinade ingredients in a bowl: honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, Chinese five spice powder, sesame oil, and red food colouring. Whisk them together until well blended.
Step 2 – Prepare the Pork
Place the pork tenderloin in a large Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and massage the marinade into the meat to ensure every inch is covered. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 48 hours. This step is key for maximizing flavour!
Step 3 – Preheat Your Oven
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfect roasting environment for your pork.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 – Initial Preparation
Place a roasting rack over a baking sheet and remove the pork from the marinade. Set the marinade aside; you’ll need it later for basting. Place the pork on the roasting rack.
Step 2 – Ingredient Assembly
Roast the pork tenderloin in the oven for about 25 minutes. Halfway through, brush the reserved marinade over the top of the pork to enhance the flavor. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; you want it to reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 3 – Cooking and Finishing Touches
Once your pork reaches the desired temperature, please remove it from the oven and set it aside to rest for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your meat remains juicy and flavorful.
Tips for an Even Tastier Version
Adding Extra Ingredients
Feel free to play around with your Char Siu by adding vegetables or spices. You can stir-fry some peppers and onions to serve alongside or mix them into your bao buns for added texture.
Techniques to Enhance Flavor
If you want to take it up a notch, try marinating your pork overnight instead of 48 hours. The longer you let it marinate, the deeper the flavours will be. Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar for an extra layer of tanginess.
Adjustments for Preferences
If you have specific dietary requirements, there are plenty of adjustments you can make. You can use low-sodium soy sauce to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian alternative, you can replace pork with tofu or seitan. Cube the protein and marinate it similarly. You won’t achieve the exact same taste, but it will still be delish!
Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, substitute soy sauce with tamari or liquid aminos. For a low-carb version, skip the bao buns and serve it with steamed vegetables instead.
Other Adaptations
Seasonal variations can add excitement to your Char Siu. Try using peaches or pineapple in the marinade for a summery twist, or add cranberries during the winter holidays for something festive.
Serving Suggestions
Salad or Soup Ideas
Pair your Char Siu with a light cabbage salad for crunch or a bowl of wonton soup for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet balanced.
Hearty Sides
Char Siu works great as a protein centerpiece. Serve it with homemade bread to soak up that amazing glaze or pair it with roasted vegetables for a nourishing touch.
Drink Recommendations
For a balanced meal, why not enjoy a chilled glass of jasmine tea? Or, if you prefer something stronger, a light white wine or a fruity mocktail can complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is a delight if you do!), let the Char Siu cool, and then store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Techniques
To reheat, you can use the oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid drying out.
Portioning Tips
If you’re meal prepping, consider portioning individual servings. This makes it easier to grab a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Nutritional Values per Serving
A standard serving of Char Siu (with the pork) contains approximately :
- Serving Size: 3 oz (85g) cooked pork
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Ingredient Benefits
Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of protein while being lower in calories than other pork cuts. Honey and hoisin contribute to some vitamins and minerals, making them a tastier option than many processed foods.
Recommended Portions
For the best experience, I recommend serving 4 ounces of pork per person, complemented by plenty of veggies or a healthy side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Issue 1 – Not Marinating Long Enough
Skipping the marinade can result in a flat flavour. Make sure to allow sufficient time for the pork to soak up all the goodness.
Issue 2 – Overcooking the Pork
Pork can easily dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to avoid this common pitfall and ensure your meat remains juicy.
Issue 3 – Forgetting to Rest
Resting your meat is crucial for a juicy outcome. If you cut into it right away, those delicious juices will just run out!
Inspiring Conclusion
Char Siu is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that’s meant to be shared with loved ones around the dinner table. From its irresistible flavour to its adaptability, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home.
Get creative, experiment with your ingredients, and don’t hesitate to share your results with family and friends. You’ll find that cooking can bring people together in the most delightful ways.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes! Marinating the pork ahead of time allows the flavours to develop. You can even prepare it a day in advance for maximum taste.
- What are the best substitutes for hoisin sauce? If you don’t have hoisin, consider a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and honey to capture a similar sweet and salty profile.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add a teaspoon of chilli garlic sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the marinade for a kick.
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes! Chicken breast or thighs also work well, but be sure to adjust cooking times for different proteins.
- What sides go well with Char Siu? Char Siu pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or even a simple salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Is Char Siu gluten-free? It can be made gluten-free if you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- What if I don’t have red food colouring? If you don’t have it on hand, it’s optional! The dish will still be flavorful without the colouring.
- Can I grill Char Siu instead of roasting? Definitely! Grilling can add an extra smoky flavour that complements the marinade beautifully.
- How long can I store leftover Char Siu? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- What’s the best way to serve Char Siu? Serve it sliced in bao buns, on a bed of rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a versatile meal.
Now that you have this comprehensive guide to making Char Siu, it’s time to gather your ingredients and give it a try! You’ll be glad you did. Happy cooking!
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Char Siu
Ingredients
For the Char Siu:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) pork shoulder or pork belly (cut into strips)
- 2 tbsp honey (for glaze)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp five-spice powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp red food coloring (optional, for traditional hue)
Instructions
- Marinate: Combine all marinade ingredients, coat pork evenly, and refrigerate for 4+ hours (overnight preferred).Roast: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pork on a rack over a baking tray. Reserve marinade.Cook: Roast for 20 minutes, flip, brush with reserved marinade, and roast 10 more minutes.Glaze: Mix honey with 1 tbsp water, brush onto pork, and broil for 2–3 minutes until caramelized.Rest: Slice and serve with rice or noodles.
Notes
- For grill method: Cook over indirect heat, basting frequently.
- Substitute pork with chicken thighs for a lighter version.