Chinese Barbecue Pork (Char Siu)

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3.87 (16)
Chinese Barbecue Pork (Char Siu)
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
60 mins
Total Time:
80mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 15, 2023

Chinese Barbecue Pork, also known as Char Siu, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. This recipe will teach you how to make tender and flavorful Char Siu at home. Marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, the pork is then roasted until it becomes caramelized and delicious. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin
  • Marinade:
  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)

Directions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well combined.
  2. Cut the pork tenderloin into long, thin strips.
  3. Place the pork strips in a large resealable plastic bag.
  4. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure all the strips are coated.
  5. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
  8. Remove the marinated pork from the bag and place it on the wire rack, allowing the excess marinade to drip off.
  9. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  10. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, turn on the broiler to caramelize the pork and achieve a slightly charred appearance.
  11. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  12. Slice the pork into thin pieces and serve with steamed rice or noodles.

Interesting Facts

  • Char Siu is a popular Cantonese dish and is often part of a Chinese barbecue platter.
  • The red color of the pork comes from the use of red food coloring in the marinade, but it is optional.
  • Char Siu is commonly used in other Chinese dishes, such as fried rice and noodle stir-fries.