Chinese BBQ Pork: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Chinese BBQ Pork, also known as Char Siu, is an amazing dish that brings a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors right to your table. This classic Asian favorite is often found in Chinese restaurants, but you can easily replicate it at home. With its glossy exterior and tender, juicy bites, Chinese BBQ Pork is perfect for a family dinner or a unique addition to your party spread. The vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma will have everyone asking for seconds!
This dish has deep roots in Chinese culinary tradition, dating back hundreds of years. It’s beloved for its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved through marination and slow cooking. If you’ve never tasted it, you are in for a treat! Each bite will transport you to the bustling streets of China, where the scent of BBQ Pork wafts through the air. In this article, we’ll explore why this recipe is so beloved, how to prepare it, and tips on serving it perfectly.
Get ready to learn the ins and outs of making Chinese BBQ Pork. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a complete novice, the sweet and savory nature of this dish will win your heart. Let’s jump right into exploring the amazing details that will ensure your BBQ Pork is a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s what makes this Chinese BBQ Pork recipe special:
1. Authentic Flavor – You’ll achieve the same rich flavors as your favorite Chinese restaurant, thanks to the ideal blend of spices and sauces.
2. Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends.
3. Versatile Dish – Perfect as a main course, topping for rice, or filling for buns. It’s adaptable to various meals.
4. Great for Meal Prep – Cook a larger batch, and have leftovers that taste even more delicious the next day.
5. Family-Friendly – The sweetness appeals to both adults and kids. It’s a dish everyone can enjoy.
6. Perfect for Celebrations – It’s an exciting addition to any gathering, making you the star of the show.
With all these fantastic aspects, it’s clear that Chinese BBQ Pork will make your mealtime memorable!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Chinese BBQ Pork requires patience, but the rewards are worth it. Here’s a simple breakdown of the time needed:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Marinating Time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
– Cooking Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 5 hours (including marination)
These steps ensure maximum flavor, yielding tender and succulent BBQ Pork.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine (or sherry)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
– Green onions, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Chinese BBQ Pork is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for incredible results:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice wine, sesame oil, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger. If using, add red food coloring to achieve that classic Char Siu look.

2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable bag or dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Prepare for Baking: Remove the pork from the marinade and place it on a baking rack set over a lined baking sheet. Save the marinade for later use.
5. Bake the Pork: Cook the pork in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, baste it with the reserved marinade and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
6. Broil for Glaze: Switch the oven to broil. Broil the pork for about 5-10 minutes, turning it halfway through until the surface is caramelized and slightly charred.
7. Rest the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
8. Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the pork into thin strips. It’s now ready to be served!

How to Serve

Presenting your Chinese BBQ Pork can enhance the meal experience. Here are some thoughtful ways to serve it:
1. Over Steamed Rice: Serve your sliced BBQ Pork on a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the savory juices, creating a delightful combination.
2. In Buns: Use the pork as a filling for steamed buns. Add slices of cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
3. With Noodles: Pair the BBQ Pork with stir-fried noodles or rice noodles and toss in some vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Garnish: Add sliced green onions on top for a fresh touch. They also add a nice color contrast.
5. Side Dishes: Pair the BBQ Pork with Chinese-style sides such as stir-fried bok choy, egg rolls, or pickled vegetables.
6. Presentation: Arrange the sliced pork in an attractive manner on a serving platter. Consider using vibrant veggies to add color, making the dish more appealing.
By keeping these serving tips in mind, you can ensure that your Chinese BBQ Pork shines as the star of your meal!

Additional Tips

– Marinate Longer: For even deeper flavor, marinate the pork shoulder overnight. This allows the meat to absorb the marinade completely.
– Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked pork, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
– Experiment with Basting: Try different sauces for basting during cooking. This can add unique flavors to your BBQ Pork.
– Optimize Resting Time: Allow the pork to rest for a few more minutes after cooking to enhance the juiciness.
– Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the honey in the marinade for desired sweetness.

Recipe Variation

Here are a few interesting variations you can experiment with:
1. Spicy Char Siu: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha to the marinade for a kick of heat.
2. Alternative Meats: Substitute the pork shoulder with chicken thighs or beef brisket for different texture and flavor profiles.
3. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil in the marinade for an aromatic twist.
4. Plant-Based Option: Use firm tofu or seitan marinated in the same sauce for a vegetarian spin on this dish.
5. Char Siu Fried Rice: Use leftover BBQ Pork to make fried rice. Simply chop the pork and stir-fry it with rice and vegetables.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep your Chinese BBQ Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 4-5 days.
– Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sliced or whole BBQ Pork. Make sure it is wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

To successfully prepare Chinese BBQ Pork, consider these tools:
– Baking Rack: This allows the heat to circulate around the pork, giving it a better texture.
– Resealable Bag: Ideal for marinating, ensuring even coverage of the marinade on the pork.
– Sharp Knife: Necessary for slicing the pork thinly once it is cooked and rested.
– Meat Thermometer: Helps monitor the internal temperature to ensure proper cooking without drying out the meat.
– Baking Sheet: Used to catch drippings and prevent mess when roasting the pork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, while pork shoulder is recommended, you can opt for pork belly or pork loin. Each cut will yield different textures and flavors.
Is it safe to eat the marinade after cooking?
No, it is recommended to bring the marinade to a boil and then use it as a sauce, or reserve some marinade before adding raw pork to ensure safety.
Can I cook the pork on a grill?
Absolutely! If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the marinated pork over medium heat. Just ensure to watch it carefully to avoid charring.
What can I serve as a side dish?
Chinese BBQ Pork pairs beautifully with stir-fried vegetables, steamed bok choy, or a simple cucumber salad to complement the savory flavors.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the pork in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave, but the oven helps maintain juiciness.

Conclusion

Chinese BBQ Pork is a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. With its tender, juicy meat and captivating aroma, it is sure to be the highlight of any meal. This recipe not only allows you to create a restaurant-quality dish at home but also provides you with the flexibility to modify and enjoy it in multiple ways. Embrace this classic Asian favorite and impress your family and friends next time you gather around the dinner table!