Char Siu Recipe (with Video)

Char Siu Recipe: Char Siu is one of the most beloved dishes in Chinese cuisine. This sweet, sticky, and smoky BBQ pork is often found in Cantonese restaurants and is commonly used in noodle dishes, rice bowls, and dim sum. The name “Char Siu” (叉烧) literally translates to “fork roasted,” referring to the traditional method of cooking the pork over an open flame.

If you’ve ever wanted to make authentic Char Siu at home, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From choosing the right cut of pork to achieving that iconic caramelized glaze, this recipe will help you recreate the classic flavors of Chinese BBQ pork.

What is Char Siu?

Char Siu is a type of Cantonese-style barbecued pork that is famous for its reddish hue, sweet-savory glaze, and tender, juicy texture. Unlike Western BBQ, which often involves smoking or grilling with dry rubs, Char Siu is marinated in a flavorful sauce before being roasted, giving it a distinctive taste and texture.

This dish has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries, commonly served with steamed rice, inside bao buns, or as a topping for noodle soups.

Ingredients Needed for Char Siu

Essential Ingredients

To make authentic Char Siu, you will need the following ingredients:

• Pork – Pork shoulder (Boston butt) or pork belly are ideal for their balance of meat and fat.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness to the marinade.
• Hoisin Sauce – Contributes a sweet and savory depth.
• Honey – Essential for that caramelized glaze.
• Oyster Sauce – Adds richness to the marinade.
• Chinese Five-Spice Powder – A key ingredient for authentic flavor.
• Shaoxing Wine – Enhances the aroma (can substitute with dry sherry).
• Sugar – Typically brown sugar or maltose for extra caramelization.
• Red Fermented Bean Curd (Optional) – Gives Char Siu its signature red color.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• Garlic & Ginger – Adds a fragrant depth to the marinade.
• Sesame Oil – A hint of nuttiness.
• Red Food Coloring (Optional) – Some people use this to enhance the reddish hue.

How to Make Char Siu – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Pork

• Choose a pork shoulder or pork belly for the best texture.
• Cut the pork into long, thick strips (about 1.5 inches wide). This allows the meat to cook evenly while retaining moisture.

Step 2: Making the Marinade

• In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sugar (or maltose)
  • ½ tsp five-spice powder
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp red fermented bean curd (optional)
  • A few drops of red food coloring (optional)
• Stir well until everything is fully blended.

Step 3: Marinating the Pork

• Place the pork strips in a large ziplock bag or container.
• Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
• Marinate overnight (at least 8 hours, preferably 24 hours) for the best flavor.
• Store in the refrigerator while marinating.

Step 4: Cooking the Char Siu

There are multiple ways to cook Char Siu:

Oven Method (Best for Home Cooks)

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top.
3. Arrange the marinated pork on the rack, reserving excess marinade.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Baste with the leftover marinade and honey for extra gloss.
6. Increase the heat to 450°F (230°C) for the last 5-7 minutes to achieve caramelization.

Grill Method (For Authentic Smokiness)

• Heat the grill to medium-high and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Baste frequently with the marinade.

Air Fryer Method (Quick & Easy)

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook for 10 minutes, flip, baste, and cook for another 10 minutes.

Step 5: Resting and Slicing

• Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Slice into thin pieces and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions for Char Siu

• Serve with steamed white rice and bok choy.
• Use as a filling for Char Siu Bao (BBQ pork buns).
• Add to ramen or wonton noodles for extra flavor.

Storing and Reheating Char Siu

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs about Char Siu Recipe

What is Char Siu?

Char Siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is a popular Cantonese dish featuring pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then roasted to perfection. It’s recognized by its distinctive red hue and caramelized exterior.

What cut of pork is best for Char Siu?

The best cuts for Char Siu are pork shoulder or pork belly. These cuts offer a good balance of fat and meat, ensuring the pork remains moist and flavorful after cooking.

How do you achieve the red color in Char Siu?

The red color in Char Siu traditionally comes from red food coloring, but it can also be achieved with natural ingredients like red fermented tofu or beetroot powder for a healthier option.

Can Char Siu be made in an oven?

Yes, Char Siu can be cooked in an oven. Marinate the pork as per the recipe, then roast at a high temperature until the exterior is caramelized and the inside is fully cooked.

What are some common side dishes to serve with Char Siu?

Char Siu is commonly served with steamed rice, noodles, or with steamed bao buns. Vegetables such as bok choy or stir-fried greens complement the dish well.

How long should you marinate the pork for Char Siu?

For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, though overnight marination is ideal to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Is there a quick version of Char Siu?

For a quicker version of Char Siu, you can use a shorter marination time and increase the oven temperature to reduce cooking time, though the flavors might not be as developed as with a longer marination.

These answers should help you master the delicious art of making Char Siu at home, bringing a touch of authentic Cantonese cuisine to your kitchen.