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Char Siu BBQ Pork: A Delicious Guide to Perfecting This Classic Dish


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 255 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of homemade Char Siu BBQ Pork. This tender, caramelized dish is marinated to perfection and roasted for a delightful finish, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Serve it sliced with steamed rice or in bao buns for a delicious treat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork belly
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional, for color)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, Chinese rice wine, sugar, five-spice powder, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red food coloring (if using). Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined. Adjust sweetness or saltiness to taste.
  2. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder or pork belly, leaving some for flavor. Place the pork in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place it on the wire rack.
  4. Roast the pork for 25-30 minutes. Baste with reserved marinade, then return to the oven and continue roasting for another 25-30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), but 160°F (71°C) is preferred for juiciness. For the last 5-10 minutes, switch to broil for a nice char.
  5. Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  6. Arrange the sliced Char Siu on a platter, drizzle with extra honey or reserved marinade, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or in bao buns.

Notes

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • They are great in fried rice or as a sandwich filling.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes