Char Siu Pork

About This Recipe

Char Siu Pork is a staple in Cantonese cuisine, often recognized by its distinctive red hue and sweet, savory glaze. Traditionally, this dish is made by marinating strips of pork in a mixture of honey, five-spice powder, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce, then roasted to perfection. The result is a tender, juicy pork with a caramelized exterior, bursting with flavor. The origins of Char Siu can be traced back to southern China, where it was originally cooked over open flames, giving it a characteristic smoky flavor. While the traditional method involved skewering the pork on long forks, modern adaptations often use the oven or grill for convenience. Char Siu is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on its own, with rice, or as part of other dishes like noodle soups and buns. Its irresistible taste and aroma make it a popular choice for both home cooks and professional chefs alike, offering a taste of authentic Cantonese cuisine in every bite.

Ingredients

Serves 4

• 500 gpork shoulder(cut into strips)
• 3 tbsphoney
• 2 tbspsoy sauce
• 2 tbsphoisin sauce
• 1 tspfive-spice powder

Instructions

1. 1

   Marinate pork

   Combine honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and five-spice powder. Marinate the pork for at least 2 hours.

   For best results, marinate overnight.

2. 2

   Preheat oven

   Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).

   Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature before roasting.

3. 3

   Roast pork

   Place the marinated pork on a rack in the oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, basting occasionally.

   Use the remaining marinade to baste the pork for extra flavor.

4. 4

   Caramelize

   Increase oven temperature to 220°C (430°F) for the last 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

   Watch carefully to avoid burning.

5. 5

   Serve

   Slice the pork and serve with rice or noodles.

   Garnish with green onions for a fresh finish.

Variations

• •

  Use chicken for a leaner version

• •

  Add chili for a spicy kick

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions