Delicious Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu Recipe: Easy & Flavorful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese BBQ Pork, also known as Char Siu, is a beloved dish featuring succulent, caramelized pork with a smoky, sweet-savory glaze. Its vibrant red hue, irresistible aroma, and balance of flavors make it a favorite in Chinese cuisine. Whether served over rice, in noodle dishes, or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients!

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder or pork belly
• Soy sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Honey
• Brown sugar
• Chinese five-spice powder
• Garlic
• Red fermented bean curd (optional for authentic color and flavor)
• Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• Sesame oil
• Red food coloring (optional)
• White pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade – In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, honey, brown sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, minced garlic, red fermented bean curd (if using), Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Marinate the Pork – Cut the pork into long strips about 1-2 inches thick. Coat each piece evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
4. Bake the Pork – Arrange the marinated pork strips on the wire rack, reserving the leftover marinade. Bake for 25 minutes.
5. Baste and Continue Cooking – Brush the pork with the reserved marinade and flip it over. Bake for another 20 minutes.
6. Caramelize the Glaze – Mix a little extra honey with the reserved marinade. Brush the pork one final time and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake for another 5-10 minutes until caramelized and slightly charred.
7. Rest and Slice – Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

• Lean Cut Option – Use pork loin instead of pork shoulder for a leaner version.
• Spicy Twist – Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Grill Instead – Cook the pork over a charcoal or gas grill for an authentic smoky flavor.
• Gluten-Free – Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
• Extra Sweet – Increase honey or brown sugar for a sweeter glaze.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours (including marination)
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sliced pork in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warm.

FAQs

How do I get the signature red color?

Traditional Char Siu gets its red hue from red fermented bean curd, but you can use a few drops of red food coloring as an alternative.

What’s the best cut of pork for Char Siu?

Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is ideal because of its balance of fat and tenderness. Pork belly is another great option for a richer texture.

Can I make Char Siu without an oven?

Yes! You can grill it over medium heat or pan-sear it in a skillet, then finish it with a glaze.

Is Char Siu spicy?

No, Char Siu is typically sweet and savory, but you can add spice by incorporating chili flakes or sriracha.

Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

How long should I marinate the pork?

For the best flavor, marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is highly recommended.

Can I cook Char Siu in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, then brush with glaze and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

What can I serve with Char Siu?

It pairs perfectly with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or inside Chinese bao buns.

How do I make Char Siu extra caramelized?

Brush it with extra honey or maltose and bake at a high temperature for the last few minutes.

Can I make this recipe healthier?

Use leaner pork cuts, reduce the sugar, or substitute honey with a natural sweetener like maple syrup.

Conclusion

Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s easy to make at home. With its sweet, savory, and smoky profile, it’s perfect for a variety of meals. Whether served with rice, noodles, or on its own, this homemade Char Siu recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy the authentic flavors of this classic Chinese dish!

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