Char siu, the iconic Cantonese barbecued pork, is a culinary masterpiece renowned for its glistening, caramelized exterior and incredibly tender, juicy interior. Its rich, savory flavor profile, a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and subtly smoky notes, makes it a beloved dish across the globe. Whether enjoyed as a standalone appetizer, a component of a larger meal, or tucked into fluffy bao buns, char siu offers an unforgettable taste experience. This captivating dish is surprisingly approachable, even for home cooks.
Beyond its deliciousness, char siu’s vibrant red color and irresistible aroma make it a feast for the senses. While traditional methods involve specialized ovens, this recipe utilizes readily available kitchen equipment to achieve restaurant-quality results. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to create your own unforgettable char siu? Let's dive into the step-by-step process outlined below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- Pork Belly
- Soy Sauce
- Honey
- Oyster Sauce
- Five-Spice Powder
- Rice Wine
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Scallions
- Sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare
- Marinate the pork belly with soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, five-spice powder, rice wine, minced garlic, and ginger. (Allow to marinate for at least several hours or overnight).
- Preheat oven to the appropriate temperature.
- Place the marinated pork belly in a baking dish.
Step 2. Bake the Pork Belly
- Bake the pork belly until tender and caramelized.
- Remove from oven and let it rest slightly.
Step 3. Slice and Prepare Garnishes
- Slice the pork belly thinly against the grain.
- Prepare your favorite noodle broth and garnishes (such as scallions).
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the char siu pork over noodles with your broth and garnish.
- Enjoy your delicious Char Siu Pork!
Read more: Super Easy Fall-Off-Bone Chinese Style Ribs: One-Pot Recipe
Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add some sugar to the marinade.
- Adjust the baking time depending on the size and thickness of the pork belly.
- Consider broiling for the last few minutes to get a nice crispy finish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 40-60g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use a regular oven instead of a barbecue?
Yes! While a barbecue gives a slightly smokier flavor, a regular oven works perfectly well. Just be sure to broil it for the final caramelization.
2. How long does the marinade need to sit?
Ideally, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor penetration. The longer, the tastier!
3. What can I do with leftover char siu?
Leftover char siu is fantastic! Enjoy it in rice bowls, sandwiches, salads, or even as a topping for noodles. It also freezes well.
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making delicious, restaurant-quality char siu pork at home. This recipe is versatile and adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles and techniques. Enjoy the fruits of your labor – your family and friends will surely be impressed!