Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

If you’ve ever craved the irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors wrapped up in tender slices of pork, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) recipe. This classic Chinese dish is surprisingly simple to make at home, delivering restaurant-quality taste without the fuss or special equipment. With a few essential ingredients and a little patience for marinating, you can enjoy that iconic red-glazed, juicy pork that’s perfect for rice bowls, noodles, or just enjoying on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky makes every bite unforgettable.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to create this flavorful dish.
• Easy to Make at Home: No special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients required.
• Versatile Serving Options: Delicious on its own, in fried rice, or wrapped in steamed buns.
• Customizable Sweetness and Spice: Easily adjust the marinade to suit your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple but essential ingredients to make your Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) taste just right. Each component adds to the rich flavor, vibrant color, or tender texture that defines this dish.

• Pork Shoulder or Pork Loin: Choose well-marbled cuts for juicy, tender results.
• Hoisin Sauce: Adds sweet, tangy depth to the marinade.
• Soy Sauce: Brings savory umami and balances sweetness.
• Chinese Five-Spice Powder: Infuses aromatic spices like star anise and cinnamon to enhance flavor complexity.
• Honey or Maltose: Creates that signature glossy, sticky coating and subtle sweetness.
• Shaoxing Wine or Dry Sherry: Boosts flavor and tenderizes the meat effectively.
• Red Food Coloring (optional): Gives the pork its traditional bright red hue without affecting taste.
• Garlic: Adds a sharp, aromatic undertone.

Variations for Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or simply want to mix things up, try these variations for your Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork).

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the marinade for a spicy twist.
• Lean Meat Option: Use pork tenderloin for a leaner, lighter version.
• Vegetarian Version: Use firm tofu or seitan marinated in similar sauces for a plant-based take.
• Sweetness Swap: Replace honey with brown sugar or maple syrup for different sweet profiles.
• Grill Instead of Oven: Char the pork on a grill for authentic smoky flavor.

How to Make Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, honey, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, and optional red food coloring. Whisk the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and aromatic.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork

Slice the pork into long strips about 1 inch thick. Place them in a zip-top bag or bowl, pour the marinade over, ensuring each piece is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight to let flavors deeply penetrate.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Cooking

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top to allow even cooking and fat drainage.

Step 4: Roast the Pork

Arrange marinated pork strips on the rack, reserving the leftover marinade. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with reserved marinade to build that glossy, sticky glaze.

Step 5: Optional Broil for Caramelization

For extra caramelized edges, broil the pork for 2-3 minutes after roasting, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This step enhances that irresistible charred flavor.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin pieces against the grain, ready to serve or store.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

• Use Well-Marbled Pork: Fat within the muscle adds juiciness and flavor.
• Marinate Overnight: The longer the pork soaks, the richer the taste.
• Reserve Marinade for Basting: Apply during roasting for a beautifully sticky finish.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the meat rest ensures juices redistribute evenly.
• Adjust Sweetness To Taste: Start with less honey or sugar and add more if preferred.

How to Serve Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork)

Garnishes

Brighten your dish with fresh sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or finely chopped cilantro. These simple garnishes add freshness and crunch that perfectly complement the rich pork.

Side Dishes

Pair your Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried greens like bok choy or gai lan, or classic Chinese fried rice. It also tastes fantastic alongside simple noodles tossed in sesame oil and garlic.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your meal by serving char siu in bao buns with pickled vegetables and hoisin sauce, or add it to a crispy egg roll filling. Use it in lettuce wraps or even as a topping for a savory breakfast congee for variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover char siu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making for an easy protein addition to your weekday meals.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze sliced char siu in a freezer-safe bag or container. It maintains great flavor for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C). Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the pork. Spritz with a little water if needed to retain moisture.

FAQs

What cut of pork is best for making char siu?

Pork shoulder is ideal because it has enough fat for juiciness, but pork loin can be used if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I make char siu without red food coloring?

Absolutely. The red color is traditional but optional and doesn’t affect the flavor of your Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork).

How long should I marinate the pork?

At least 4 hours is good, but marinating overnight will result in deeper, more flavorful meat.

Can I cook char siu on a grill?

Yes, grilling adds wonderful smoky flavor. Use indirect heat and baste frequently to avoid drying out the pork.

Is Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) gluten-free?

Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, so use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make this recipe gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade Easy Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork) that makes it a comforting and show-stopping dish in any kitchen. Once you try this simple recipe, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for impressing friends, family, or just treating yourself. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, dive in, and enjoy the sweet, smoky magic of char siu right at home.

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