This Easy Chinese BBQ Pork is a tasty dish that’s perfect for beginners! It’s made with tender pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I love how the aroma fills the kitchen while it cooks! Serve it with rice or noodles, and you’ll impress your family or friends without any stress. It’s a win-win! 👏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt: These cuts are best for BBQ pork because they have enough fat to keep the meat juicy. If you don’t have these, try pork tenderloin or chicken thighs for a lighter option!
Hoisin Sauce: This adds a sweet and rich flavor. If you’re out, try using teriyaki sauce or a mix of soy sauce and sugar instead, but keep in mind it won’t taste quite the same.
Shaoxing Wine: Chinese cooking wine adds depth. If you can’t find it, dry sherry is a good substitute. You could also skip it, just don’t forget to add a little extra soy sauce to balance flavors.
Red Food Coloring: This is for that iconic red color seen in traditional BBQ pork. It’s optional, so don’t worry if you prefer to skip it. The flavor will still shine through!
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Is Not Dry?
Keeping the pork moist is key for juicy BBQ. Here are some great tips:
- Marinate the pork longer if possible—overnight works wonders! This helps it absorb flavors and moisture.
- Don’t overcook the pork. Keep an eye on it after the initial roasting time and take it out as soon as it reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Letting the pork rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making it tender when you slice it.
Following these steps will help you master this Easy Chinese BBQ Pork, making it a hit every time! Enjoy cooking! 🍜
Easy Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) pork shoulder or pork butt, sliced into strips about 1-inch thick
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey or maltose syrup
- 2 tablespoons Chinese Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring (optional, for traditional red color)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Steamed white rice, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook. If you can, allow for at least 4 hours of marinating time (or overnight) for the best flavor. In total, you’re looking at around 4 hours and 50 minutes, including wait time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, sugar, five-spice powder, minced garlic, and red food coloring (if using). Mix everything together well to form a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork strips to the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but if you can wait, do it overnight for the best flavor!
3. Get Ready to Roast:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top of the baking tray.
4. Arrange the Pork:
Take the marinated pork strips and arrange them on the wire rack in a single layer. Remember to save the leftover marinade for later!
5. Start Roasting the Pork:
Put the tray in the oven and roast the pork for 15 minutes. It will start to smell amazing!
6. Make the Glaze:
While the pork is roasting, pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens a bit. This will be your glaze!
7. Glaze and Flip the Pork:
After roasting for 15 minutes, take the pork out and brush it with the thickened marinade. Flip the pieces over, then return them to the oven. Roast for another 10-15 minutes, brushing with more glaze a couple of times until the pork is cooked through and has beautiful charred spots.
8. Rest and Slice:
Once done, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice it into bite-sized pieces.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with sliced green onions on top and serve the BBQ pork hot with steamed white rice. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors you’ve created!
Happy cooking! Your homemade Chinese BBQ Pork is sure to impress! 🎉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt is recommended for its tenderness and fat content, you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option or even chicken thighs for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since different meats may cook faster or slower.
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Pork?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop while adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated pork before cooking, or you can freeze the cooked BBQ pork. Just make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer bag. Use it within 2-3 months for the best quality.
What Should I Serve with Chinese BBQ Pork?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with noodles or use it in a bao bun for a fun twist!
