Name: Mouthwatering Char Siu Pork: Easy & Flavor-Packed Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Pork Butt (Can substitute with pork belly, collar, or tenderloin.); 4 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Can swap with coconut sugar.); 1/2 cup Shoyu (Soy Sauce) (Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free.); 1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce (No direct substitute, but a mix of soy sauce and sugar may work.); 1/4 cup Sherry (Can substitute with rice vinegar or leave out.); 1 tablespoon Red Food Coloring (Optional for color.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Olive oil as a substitute, though flavor will differ.); 1 teaspoon Chinese Five Spice Powder (Substitute with cinnamon and anise if desired.)

The aroma of sweet, savory goodness wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite Chinese BBQ joint. There’s something irresistible about Char Siu Pork that draws you in, with its vibrant red hue and a glaze that promises an explosion of flavors. This dish isn’t just beloved across generations; it’s also a surprisingly simple recipe that will have your dinner guests reveling in delight. With juicy, tender pork that melts in your mouth, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special celebration. Plus, the marinade can be prepared in advance, making it an easy addition to your dinner rotation. Ready to elevate your home-cooking game? Let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Char Siu Pork together—your taste buds are in for a treat!

Why is Char Siu Pork So Irresistible?

Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The harmony of flavors in Char Siu Pork—sweet, salty, and slightly spicy—creates a taste experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for home cooks eager to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Options: While traditionally made with pork, this flavorful marinade can easily enhance chicken or beef, allowing you to mix things up based on your preferences or what’s on hand.

Great for Meal Prep: Prepare the marinade in advance and let your meat soak overnight for a hassle-free dinner that packs a punch of flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Main Dish: Serve it at your next gathering with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a delicious feast that will wow your guests! If you love Asian flavors, you might also want to check out my Korean Pork Belly that brings a similar mouthwatering delight to the table.

Char Siu Pork Ingredients

For the Marinade

Pork Butt – Ideal for its flavor and moisture; can substitute with pork belly, collar, or tenderloin (remember to adjust cooking times).
Garlic – Freshly minced adds a robust flavor; always go for fresh for the best results.
Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps in caramelization; swap with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Shoyu (Soy Sauce) – Provides a wonderful umami depth; low-sodium soy sauce or tamari can work for gluten-free diets.
Hoisin Sauce – Offers a unique depth of flavor; while there’s no direct substitute, a mix of soy sauce and sugar can mimic it.
Sherry – Adds complexity to the marinade; if unavailable, rice vinegar is a suitable replacement, or you can leave it out.
Red Food Coloring – Not essential for flavor, but gives that alluring red hue; you can omit it or use beet juice for natural coloring.
Sesame Oil – Brings a nutty flavor; if out, olive oil can be used, but note that the flavor won’t be the same.
Chinese Five Spice Powder – Adds warmth and depth; can be substituted with cinnamon and anise based on your taste.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a delightful Char Siu Pork that will impress any dinner guest!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Char Siu Pork

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine freshly minced garlic, brown sugar, shoyu (soy sauce), hoisin sauce, sherry, red food coloring (optional), sesame oil, and Chinese five spice powder. Whisk the marinade until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth, creating a fragrant blend that will infuse your Char Siu Pork with rich flavors.

Step 2: Marinate Pork
Cut your pork butt into long strips, approximately 1-2 inches wide. Place the pork strips in a large zipper-top bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag, massage it gently to distribute the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for optimal flavor absorption.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
Approximately 30 minutes before you plan to bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for obtaining that signature caramelization on your Char Siu Pork, ensuring it develops a delightful outer crust while the inside remains tender and juicy.

Step 4: Baking Setup
Prepare your baking setup by placing a wire rack over a baking sheet. Pour ¼ cup of water into the baking sheet to create steam during roasting. This steaming process helps keep the pork moist while allowing it to caramelize beautifully, so your dish has that appealing texture.

Step 5: Bake Pork
After preheating, carefully remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting later. Arrange the pork strips on the wire rack, ensuring there’s space between the pieces. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), and the meat exhibits a lovely golden color.

Step 6: Baste
Every 15-20 minutes throughout the baking process, brush your reserved marinade onto the pork. This step is crucial as it develops a thick, glossy glaze that elevates the flavor and enhances the visual appeal of your Char Siu Pork, creating that signature sweet and savory coating.

Step 7: Broil for Caramelization (Optional)
For extra caramelization, switch your oven to broil mode during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Place the pork under the broiler and stay close to monitor it closely, ensuring that it develops a rich, shiny finish without burning. This final touch adds depth and texture to your dish.

Step 8: Rest and Slice
Once the Char Siu Pork has reached the desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier. Then, slice the pork thinly against the grain for tender pieces that showcase that beautiful glaze.

Expert Tips for Char Siu Pork

Marinate Wisely: Marinating for too long can toughen the meat; stick to 24 hours maximum for the best texture.
Basting Technique: Regularly basting every 15-20 minutes is crucial to achieve that signature thick glaze on your Char Siu Pork.
Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to avoid overcooking.
Cut Adjustments: If using another pork cut, adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain tenderness and juicy results.
Broiling Tip: Keep a close eye when broiling—only a few minutes is needed to caramelize without burning, enhancing flavor and appearance.

Storage Tips for Char Siu Pork

Fridge: Store leftover Char Siu Pork in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days, ensuring it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Char Siu Pork for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pork in the refrigerator overnight for safe and even defrosting.

Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through, basting with leftover marinade for added moisture and flavor.

What to Serve with Easy Char Siu Pork?

When it comes to creating a delightful dining experience, the right companions can elevate your Char Siu Pork to new heights.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice absorbs the rich flavors of the pork’s glaze beautifully, serving as the perfect base.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Crisp and tender, this vibrant green vegetable adds a fresh contrast and enhances the meal’s color, balancing the sweetness of the pork.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy cucumber salad with sesame oil and rice vinegar provides a light crunch that complements the savory depth of the Char Siu.
Egg Fried Rice: Loaded with veggies and scrambled eggs, this dish not only brings great texture but also takes the meal up a notch with its comforting, familiar flavors.
Thai Basil Noodles: For a twist, try serving the pork with Thai basil noodles. The herbs’ brightness cuts through the sauce’s sweetness, offering a well-rounded flavor combination.
Chilled Green Tea: This subtly flavored drink is a soothing palate cleanser that pairs beautifully with the intense flavors of Char Siu Pork, highlighting its rich spices.
Mango Sticky Rice: Conclude your meal with this delightful dessert. The sweet, creamy coconut rice and ripe mango present a heavenly contrast to the savory pork.

Char Siu Pork Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to modify this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs—let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Dairy-Free: All ingredients in this recipe are naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy products.
Low-Sugar: Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener to reduce the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of ground Sichuan pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for some extra heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
Gluten-Free: Use Tamari instead of shoyu (soy sauce) and check your hoisin sauce for gluten-free options to maintain the dish’s delightful flavor without gluten.
Beef Variation: Utilize flank steak or sirloin instead of pork for a unique twist. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may be quicker than pork.
Chicken Option: For a lighter option, use chicken thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time, as chicken cooks faster than pork but will still absorb those fantastic flavors beautifully.
Vegetarian Style: Try marinating firm tofu or seitan in the same mix—it won’t be traditional Char Siu, but it will deliver a sensational, flavorful experience!
Enhanced Flavor: For an extra layer of depth, add a tablespoon of molasses to the marinade for richer sweetness and complexity.

When crafting your culinary creations, don’t forget that each ingredient has a role to play! If you’re a fan of exciting Asian flavors, you may also love my delectable Korean Pork Belly, which brings a similarly delicious flavor profile to your dining table.

Make Ahead Options

Char Siu Pork is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance, making it easy to simply add the pork and let it soak overnight for maximum flavor. Slice the pork into strips and marinate it in a zipper-top bag with the marinade for at least 8 hours (but up to 24 hours for the best flavor). When you’re ready to cook, follow the baking instructions as usual, and for best quality, baste the pork with the reserved marinade for that beautiful glaze. This method ensures your Char Siu Pork is just as delicious as if made fresh, perfect for those hectic weeknights!

Char Siu Pork Recipe FAQs

What type of pork is best for Char Siu?
Absolutely! Pork butt is the most recommended cut due to its flavor and moisture, but you can also use pork belly, pork collar, or tenderloin if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking times: pork belly will likely need a bit longer while tenderloin may cook quicker.

How do I store leftover Char Siu Pork?
After you’ve enjoyed the delightful flavors of your Char Siu Pork, make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 4-5 days. Allow the pork to cool to room temperature before sealing to minimize condensation that can affect texture.

Can I freeze Char Siu Pork?
Very! You can freeze Char Siu Pork for up to 3 months. I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

What’s the best way to reheat Char Siu Pork?
For the tastiest results, reheat your Char Siu Pork gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain that juicy texture. If you prefer using a microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Basting with any reserved marinade can revitalize the flavors and keep the meat moist!

What to do if the pork doesn’t caramelize?
If your Char Siu Pork isn’t caramelizing as expected, it’s likely a basting issue. Make sure to baste every 15-20 minutes during cooking with the reserved marinade. If you find it’s still not achieving that beautiful glaze, you can try broiling it for 5 minutes at the end to enhance the caramelization—keep a close eye to avoid burning!

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! If you have a gluten sensitivity, you can easily substitute shoyu with tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, for those watching their sugar intake, using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar is a fantastic option. Always check with your guests regarding allergies, especially with the hoisin sauce, as it can contain various allergens.