This Easy Chinese BBQ Pork is a treat! Tender, sweet, and slightly smoky, it’s perfect for a tasty dinner or topping on rice. Just a few ingredients make this dish big on flavor!
Making this BBQ pork is a breeze! I love how it cooks in the oven, filling the house with a mouthwatering aroma. It’s so good, you’ll want to make it every week! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt: These cuts are ideal for BBQ pork due to their fat content, making the meat tender and juicy. If you can’t find them, use pork tenderloin, but be careful not to overcook as it’s leaner.
Hoisin Sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is key to the characteristic flavor. If you’re out of hoisin, mix soy sauce with a bit of sugar and peanut butter as a substitute.
Honey or Maltose Syrup: Both add sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Chinese Shaoxing Wine: This wine gives depth to the dish. If unavailable, dry sherry works well. For a non-alcoholic option, use broth or vinegar diluted with water.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate the Pork?
Marinating is crucial for flavor. The longer you marinate, the better the taste. Here’s how to get it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients well in a bowl.
- Add the pork, making sure it’s fully coated. Remember, you can also use a plastic bag for easier mixing and coverage.
- Cover and refrigerate. A minimum of 4 hours is good, but overnight is ideal to enhance flavors.
For best results, turn the pork occasionally in the marinade. This way, each piece gets all that delicious flavor.
Easy Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into strips or chunks
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey or maltose syrup
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chinese Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional, for classic red color)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
- Steamed white rice, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep time, plus a minimum of 4 hours to marinate (preferably overnight). The cooking time is about 30 minutes, making it a simple and manageable process for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, five-spice powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, red food coloring (if you want that classic look), and vegetable oil. Stir until well combined, creating a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork chunks into the marinade, making sure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pork to a ziplock bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is the best for rich flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This will help the pork cook evenly and allow the fat to drip off.
4. Roast the Pork:
Place the marinated pork pieces on the wire rack, making sure there’s some space between each piece. Don’t forget to keep the leftover marinade! Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes. At the halfway mark, baste the pork with the leftover marinade for extra flavor.
5. Broil for Finish:
For the last 3-5 minutes, switch your oven to broil (grill) on high. Keep a close eye on it as this will help create a lovely charred, caramelized exterior. You want it to look delicious without burning!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Slice the pork or serve the pieces intact. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dine on your homemade BBQ pork hot with a side of steamed white rice. Feel free to drizzle more sauce on top if desired! Enjoy this delightful treat any night of the week!
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Chinese BBQ Pork with all its sweet-savory goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While pork shoulder or pork butt are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just watch the cooking time, as it will cook faster than the fattier cuts.
What Should I Do If I Can’t Find Shaoxing Wine?
If Shaoxing wine isn’t available, dry sherry is a great substitute. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use chicken or vegetable broth mixed with a splash of vinegar as a replacement.
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Pork?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork a day before and roast it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors deepen with time, making it even tastier!
