If you’ve ever enjoyed Chinese barbecue pork, also known as Char Siu, you know how irresistible its sweet, smoky, and savory flavors can be. Making Char Siu pork at home might seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish that rivals any restaurant version. Let’s dive into how you make Char Siu pork, step-by-step, with tips to get that perfect caramelized glaze and juicy interior.
What Is Char Siu Pork?
Char Siu (叉烧) literally means “fork roasted” in Cantonese, referring to the traditional method of skewering pork and roasting it over an open fire. It’s a classic Cantonese-style Chinese barbecue pork that is marinated in a rich, flavorful sauce, then roasted or grilled until beautifully caramelized. The result is tender, juicy pork with a glossy, reddish-brown exterior and a sweet-savory taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic Char Siu pork, gather these key ingredients:
– Pork shoulder or pork belly (about 700g), cut into thick strips
– Chinese five-spice powder
– Honey or maltose (for glaze)
– Brown sugar
– Light soy sauce
– Dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
– Oyster sauce
– Hoisin sauce
– Garlic (minced or powder)
– Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
– Red fermented bean curd (optional, for authentic flavor and color)
– White pepper
These ingredients combine to create the signature Char Siu marinade that’s sweet, savory, and slightly smoky.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Char Siu Pork at Home
1. Prepare the Pork
Choose pork shoulder or pork belly for the best texture and flavor. Cut the pork into strips about 1.5 inches thick. This thickness helps the pork stay juicy during cooking.
2. Make the Marinade
In a bowl, mix together:
– Honey
– Brown sugar
– Light and dark soy sauce
– Oyster sauce
– Hoisin sauce
– Chinese five-spice powder
– Minced garlic
– Shaoxing wine
– Red fermented bean curd (if using)
– White pepper
Blend or whisk until smooth. This marinade is the heart of Char Siu’s flavor and color.
3. Marinate the Pork
Place the pork strips in a resealable bag or container and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the pork is fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
4. Cook the Pork
There are several ways to cook Char Siu pork:
– Oven roasting: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pork on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet. Roast for about 40-45 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with reserved marinade until the pork is cooked through and caramelized.
– Pan-frying: Heat a nonstick pan with a little oil over medium heat. Pan-fry the pork strips, turning occasionally, until both sides are dark brown and caramelized. Cover briefly to ensure the pork cooks through.
– Grilling or smoking: For authentic smoky flavor, cook over indirect heat on a grill or smoker, basting frequently. This method adds a wonderful char and aroma.
5. Glaze and Caramelize
In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the pork with honey or reserved marinade and broil or increase heat to caramelize the exterior. This step gives Char Siu its signature sticky, glossy finish.
6. Rest and Slice
Remove the pork from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Slice the pork thinly against the grain for tender, juicy bites.
Tips for Perfect Char Siu Every Time
– Use a meat thermometer: Cook pork to an internal temperature of 145°F to 160°F for safety and juiciness.
– Baste frequently: This keeps the pork moist and builds layers of flavor.
– Marinate longer: Overnight marinating deepens the flavor and tenderizes the meat.
– Try red fermented bean curd: It adds authentic color and a unique umami taste.
– Don’t overcook: Avoid drying out the pork by monitoring cooking time and temperature closely.
Serving Suggestions
Char Siu pork is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it:
– Sliced over steamed rice or fried rice
– In bao buns or steamed buns
– With noodles or stir-fried vegetables
– As a flavorful addition to salads or wraps
Its sweet-savory profile complements many dishes and cuisines.
Char Siu pork is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With a simple marinade, proper cooking technique, and a little patience, you’ll have tender, juicy, and beautifully glazed Chinese BBQ pork ready to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the authentic taste of Cantonese barbecue in your own kitchen!
Making Char Siu pork at home means you control the flavors and get that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!