Name: Char Siu Pork: Your New Favorite Sweet and Savory BBQ Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Brown Sugar (Feel free to substitute with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option.); 1/2 cup Shoyu (Soy Sauce) (Swap it with tamari for a gluten-free variation.); 1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce (Consider making your own if store-bought is unavailable.); 1/4 cup Sherry (Rice vinegar or mirin can be used as substitutes.); a few drops Red Food Coloring (Optional.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Feel free to substitute with another light oil.); 1 tablespoon Chinese Five Spice (Essential for authentic flavor.); 2 pounds Pork Butt (Alternative cuts like pork belly or tenderloin work well too.)

The aroma of sizzling pork wafting from a street vendor in Hong Kong is something that sticks with you. That’s the magic of Char Siu Pork, a quintessential Chinese BBQ delight that beautifully balances sweet, salty, and just a hint of spice. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to recreate this restaurant favorite at home, delivering tender, juicy morsels glistening with a rich, caramelized glaze. It’s an exciting option for dinner, effortlessly bringing a taste of authentic Asian cuisine right to your table. Plus, it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also simple to prepare, making it a weeknight go-to for anyone tired of the usual fast-food rotations. Are you ready to turn your kitchen into a bustling bistro? Let’s dive in!

Why is Char Siu Pork a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory marinade transforms the pork into a flavor-packed dish that will delight your taste buds.
Home-Cooked Convenience: With a straightforward recipe, you can impress your family without the hassle of a gourmet meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers are just as delicious and can be transformed into rice bowls or sandwiches, keeping your meals exciting all week long.
Cultural Experience: Enjoy a taste of China right at home with this classic dish that brings the warmth of Cantonese comfort food to your table.
Sizzle & Glaze: The beautiful mahogany color and glossy finish make it as visually appealing as it is tasty—perfect for your next dinner party!

Get ready to tantalize your palate and impress your guests with this delightful Char Siu Pork!

Char Siu Pork Ingredients

For the Marinade

Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in caramelization; feel free to substitute with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option.
Shoyu (Soy Sauce) – Provides the savory umami flavor; swap it with tamari for a gluten-free variation.
Hoisin Sauce – Contributes to the dish’s sweetness and depth; consider making your own if store-bought is unavailable.
Sherry – Adds complexity to the marinade; rice vinegar or mirin can be used as substitutes if necessary.
Red Food Coloring – Enhances the visual appeal; it’s optional and can be omitted for a more natural look.
Sesame Oil – Imparts a delightful nutty flavor; feel free to substitute with another light oil if desired.
Chinese Five Spice – Essential for authentic flavor; you can adjust or omit according to personal taste preferences.

For the Pork

Pork Butt – The main protein that ensures juicy flavor; alternative cuts like pork belly or tenderloin work well too, but adjust cooking times if using.

Prepare to gather these delightful ingredients and create your very own Char Siu Pork culinary masterpiece!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Char Siu Pork

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together minced garlic, brown sugar, shoyu, hoisin sauce, sherry, a few drops of red food coloring (if using), sesame oil, and Chinese five spice. Ensure the mixture is well combined, resulting in a thick, glossy marinade. This will infuse your Char Siu Pork with its characteristic sweet and savory flavors.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork
Trim the pork butt of excess fat and slice it into long strips, about 2 inches wide. Place the pork strips into a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring a thorough coat. Seal the bag, pressing out excess air, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air circulation, which will help achieve that delicious caramelized finish.

Step 4: Bake the Pork
Carefully transfer the marinated pork strips onto the wire rack, making sure they aren’t touching. Pour about half an inch of water into the baking sheet to create steam during cooking, which keeps the pork moist. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, basting with the marinade every 15-20 minutes for that rich glaze.

Step 5: Broil for Glaze
Once the pork is nearly finished, switch the oven setting to broil on low. Broil the Char Siu Pork for an additional 5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This step enhances the caramelization, resulting in a beautiful, sticky glaze that gives the pork its signature look.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
After broiling, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This ensures the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness. Slice the pork thinly against the grain, showcasing its lovely mahogany color, and serve alongside rice and stir-fried vegetables for a delightful meal.

Make Ahead Options

Char Siu Pork is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can easily marinate the pork up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to soak up those delicious flavors. Simply follow the marinating step, then store it in the refrigerator in a zip-top bag. If you’re looking to prep even further ahead, you can bake the pork up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate the cooked slices in an airtight container. When it’s time to enjoy, reheat in the oven or microwave, and consider a quick broil to refresh that beautiful glaze. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality Char Siu Pork ready to impress your family with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Char Siu Pork

Fridge: Store leftover Char Siu Pork in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Make sure it has cooled down completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sliced pork in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: Thaw frozen Char Siu Pork overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring the edges don’t dry out.

Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers or vacuum seal bags to prevent freezer burn and preserve the sweet and savory flavors of your Char Siu Pork.

Expert Tips for Char Siu Pork

Marinating Time Matters: Marinate for at least 8 hours and up to 24 hours. Avoid marinating for longer or it may toughen the meat.
Thermometer Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked Char Siu Pork.
Baste Correctly: Baste the pork every 15-20 minutes with the marinade, but be careful not to burn it during the last stages of cooking.
Pork Cut Choices: While pork butt is ideal, feel free to use tenderloin or pork belly—just adjust cooking times to avoid drying out.
Broiling Caution: When broiling for that glossy finish, stay close to the oven to guard against burning; it’s a quick but crucial step.
Resting is Key: Allow the pork to rest before slicing. This rejuvenates the juices, keeping every bite juicy and tender.

Char Siu Pork: Endless Customization Opportunities

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this dish your own with these delightful variations!

Spicy Twist: Add ground Szechuan pepper to the marinade for a delicious kick that warmly tingles your taste buds. You’ll love how the heat balances with the sweetness!
Meat Swap: Substitute pork with chicken thighs or even crispy tofu for a lighter, yet flavorful dish, perfect for those seeking a different protein experience.
Sweetener Alternative: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique twist; the flavors meld beautifully during caramelization.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate chopped cilantro or green onions as a garnish when serving for a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich pork.
Baos, Please: Instead of serving over rice, consider making fluffy bao buns for a fun and interactive way to enjoy Char Siu Pork!
Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade for a distinct BBQ flavor reminiscent of summer grilling.
Extra Glaze: Increase the amount of hoisin sauce by a tablespoon for an even stickier, sweeter finish—perfect for the glaze lovers!
Vegetable Medley: Stir-fry seasonal vegetables and serve alongside the pork for a colorful plate that enhances your meal visually and nutritionally.

With these variations, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy your homemade Char Siu Pork! Whether you’re looking for a spicy kick or a fun twist with bao buns, the options are endless—make it your own!

What to Serve with Char Siu Pork

Bring your dinner table to life with delightful pairings that enhance the rich flavors of this mouthwatering dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice:
Light and fluffy, jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the savory sauce, creating a beautiful balance of flavors that complements the Char Siu Pork.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy:
Crisp and tender, bok choy adds a fresh, peppery crunch, elevating the meal with its vibrant color and nutrition.
Spicy Szechuan Noodles:
These noodles give a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweet glaze of the pork, offering a delightful contrast in taste.
Pickled Veggies:
The acidity from pickled cucumbers or radishes cuts through the richness of the Char Siu, providing a refreshing and tangy crunch.
Chinese Tea:
A fragrant oolong tea aids digestion and complements the pork’s flavors, making for a soothing pairing to ease the meal’s richness.
Mango Salad:
Sweet, juicy mango slices tossed in lime juice bring a tropical sweetness that dances on the palate, perfectly offsetting the savory pork.
Sesame Noodles:
These creamy noodles, dotted with sesame, offer a nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sweet and salty notes of the Char Siu Pork.

Each of these pairings invites togetherness and flavor, ensuring your Char Siu Pork takes center stage at your gathering.

Char Siu Pork Recipe FAQs

What type of pork should I use for Char Siu Pork?
Absolutely! Pork butt is the traditional choice for Char Siu due to its marbling, which keeps the meat juicy during cooking. However, you can also use pork belly for a richer, fattier flavor or pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for leaner cuts.

How should I store leftover Char Siu Pork?
Store your leftover Char Siu Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain its juicy goodness!

Can I freeze Char Siu Pork?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the pork and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What should I do if my Char Siu Pork isn’t caramelizing properly?
If your pork isn’t caramelizing as expected, ensure you’re basting regularly with the marinade during the baking process. If it still lacks that glossy finish, you might want to switch to broil during the last few minutes of cooking. Stay close and monitor it closely to prevent burning!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very simple! Swap out conventional shoyu (soy sauce) for tamari, which is gluten-free, and be sure your hoisin sauce is also gluten-free. There are many great options available now, making it easy for everyone to enjoy this delicious Char Siu Pork.

Is Char Siu Pork safe for my pet dog to eat?
While it’s tempting to share, most recipes, including this one, contain ingredients like soy sauce and sugar that aren’t healthy for dogs. If your furry friend is giving you those puppy eyes, consider setting aside a small, plain piece of the pork (without marinade) as an occasional treat! Always check with your vet before introducing new foods to their diet.