Authentic Char Siu BBQ Pork

Name: Authentic Char Siu BBQ Pork
Prep time: 480 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 520 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 tbsp hoisin sauce; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry); 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tsp five-spice powder; 1 tsp red food coloring (optional for color); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lb pork shoulder (cut into strips)

520 min 4 servings medium

All Recipes

Authentic Char Siu BBQ Pork

Savor the rich, sticky-sweet taste of this iconic Chinese BBQ dish.

Prep

480 min

Cook

30 min

Total

520 min

Servings

Difficulty

medium

Char Siu, a quintessential component in Chinese cuisine, is beloved for its glossy, caramelized exterior and tender, juicy interior. Often found hanging enticingly in the windows of Chinese delis, this dish is recognized by its vibrant red hue and aromatic, sweet-savory marinade. The magic of Char Siu lies in its marinade, a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors that penetrate the pork deeply. Originally, this dish was cooked over open flames, but modern adaptations allow for grilling on a traditional BBQ grill, infusing it with a smoky flavor that complements its sweet glaze beautifully.

Ingredients

Servings

Marinade

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese rice wine, oyster sauce, sesame oil, five-spice powder, optional red food coloring, and minced garlic until well combined.

Pro tip: For a deeper flavor, let the marinade sit for 10 minutes before applying to the pork.

Marinate the Pork

Place the pork strips in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the pork. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Pro tip: Turning the pork occasionally helps ensure even marination.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 350°F (175°C).

Pro tip: Use a charcoal grill for an authentic smoky flavor.

Grill the Pork

Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill the pork strips for about 15 minutes on each side, basting with remaining marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to perfection.

Rest and Serve

Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly.

Pro tip: Resting the pork helps retain its juices, making it more tender and flavorful.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure your grill maintains a consistent medium heat to avoid burning the sugar in the marinade. Marinate the pork overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Always let the meat rest before slicing to retain its juices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Char Siu BBQ Pork sliced thinly and arranged on a platter. It pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or noodles, allowing the bold flavors to shine. A side of pickled vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork. For an authentic Chinese BBQ experience, consider serving alongside a light, crisp salad or steamed bok choy, which will balance the dish's flavors and provide a delightful variety in texture.