Go Back
–+ servings
2 char siu pork tenderloins on a cutting board, one cut up in slices.
Print Recipe Add to Collection
4.67 from 3 votes

Char Siu Pork (Chinese BBQ Pork)

This Char Siu Pork recipe brings the classic Chinese BBQ pork right to your kitchen, with an easy-to-follow method that guarantees mouth-watering results. It features tender pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then baked to perfection with a caramelized glaze.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Keyword: char siu, char siu pork, chinese bbq pork
Servings: 6
Calories: 262kcal
Author: Joanna Cismaru

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds pork tenderloin or pork shoulder

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maltose for glossy finish
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
  • 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Optional

  • red food coloring just a few drops for that signature red tint, but totally optional

Garnish

  • sesame seeds
  • green onions sliced
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Begin by mixing all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. If you're going for that signature red color, add a few drops of red food coloring.
  • If using pork shoulder, cut the pork into long strips or chunks, whatever your preference! Place the pork in a large resealable bag or a dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure each piece is well-coated. Toss it well and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight will get you the most flavor-packed results!
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the marinated pork pieces on a rack over a baking tray, ensuring there's space between each piece for even cooking. Don't waste that leftover marinade – baste the pork with it!
  • Bake the pork for 25-30 minutes, turning and basting with the remaining marinade every 10 minutes. You're looking for a nice caramelization on the outside. For an added touch, you can broil the pork for the last 2-3 minutes for that extra char.
  • Once done, let the Char Siu rest for about 10 minutes. Slice it up, garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired, and dive in!

Video

Notes

  1. Marinade Time: For best results, marinate the pork overnight. If you're short on time, a minimum of 4 hours will still give great flavor.
  2. Oven Rack Position: Place the oven rack in the middle position to ensure even cooking and browning of the Char Siu.
  3. Checking for Doneness: The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  4. Resting Time: Allow the Char Siu to rest for 10 minutes after roasting. This helps the meat reabsorb the juices, making it more tender and flavorful.
  5. Slicing: Slice the Char Siu against the grain for the most tender texture.
  6. Leftovers Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  7. Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to retain moisture. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 262kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 99mg | Sodium: 483mg | Potassium: 654mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 8IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 2mg