barbecued pork

How to Make Char Siu: A Comprehensive Guide

Char siu, Cantonese for "fork-roasted meat," is a beloved sweet and savory dish featuring tender, marinated pork. Mastering it at home is simple with this step-by-step guide.

Ingredients: 1 kg pork shoulder (or belly), 5 tbsp soy sauce, 3 tbsp hoisin sauce, 4 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp rice wine, 1 tsp five-spice powder, 1 tsp red food coloring (optional), and 3 minced garlic cloves.

Steps:

1. Marinate: Slice pork into 2-inch thick strips. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sugar, rice wine, five-spice powder, food coloring, and garlic. Add pork, ensuring each piece is coated. Marinate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Prepare for Roasting: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Thread marinated pork onto skewers, leaving space between pieces. Place on a rack over a baking sheet to catch drips.

3. Roast: Bake for 20 minutes. Baste with remaining marinade, then roast for another 10–15 minutes until caramelized and slightly charred at the edges. For a smoky touch, finish on a grill for 2 minutes per side.

4. Rest and Serve: Let pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy with steamed rice or in buns.

Tips: For extra juiciness, use pork belly. Adjust sugar/honey to your preferred sweetness. This versatile dish guarantees restaurant-quality results at home!