Char Siu

Char Siu, often referred to as Chinese BBQ pork, is a beloved dish renowned for its rich flavors and vibrant colors. This iconic Cantonese delicacy features succulent strips of pork marinated in a delectable blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and five-spice powder, then roasted to perfection. The result is a mouth-watering dish that boasts a sweet and savory glaze, making it a staple in many Chinese restaurants and households. Its popularity can be attributed to its versatility; Char Siu can be enjoyed on its own, served with rice, or incorporated into various dishes like buns and noodle soups. As noted by culinary experts, “Char Siu is a perfect representation of the balance of flavors in Chinese cuisine.” With its appealing taste and visual allure, it’s no wonder that Char Siu continues to capture the hearts (and palates) of food lovers around the world.

Preparation of Char Siu

Char Siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is a beloved Cantonese dish characterized by its sweet, sticky, and savory flavor profile. Historically, Char Siu was originally made from leftover pork, marinated in a mixture of honey and soy sauce, then roasted over an open flame. This method not only preserved the meat but also enhanced its flavor. Today, it is a staple in Chinese cuisine, often served with rice or noodles, and is a popular filling for buns and other dishes.

Ingredients

Steps

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine honey, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, red food coloring (if using), minced garlic, rice wine, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for roasting.
4. Prepare for Roasting: Line a baking tray with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the tray to allow the air to circulate around the pork while cooking.
5. Roast the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade and place it on the wire rack. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. Baste the Pork: After the initial 30 minutes, baste the pork with the reserved marinade. Continue to roast for another 30-40 minutes, basting every 10-15 minutes until the pork is caramelized and cooked through.
7. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Slice the pork into thin pieces, showcasing the beautiful charred exterior and juicy interior.
8. Serve: Serve the sliced Char Siu over rice, with noodles, or in steamed buns, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Char Siu?

Char Siu is a popular Cantonese dish of marinated and roasted pork, known for its sweet and savory flavor profile.

What does Char Siu taste like?

Char Siu has a unique combination of sweetness from honey and maltose, along with a savory, slightly smoky taste from the roasting process.

What cut of meat is used for Char Siu?

Typically, pork shoulder or pork belly is used for Char Siu, as these cuts maintain moisture and flavor during cooking.

How is Char Siu prepared?

Char Siu is traditionally marinated in a mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and five-spice powder, then roasted until caramelized.

Can Char Siu be made with other meats?

Yes, while pork is traditional, Char Siu can also be made with chicken or beef, but the flavor and texture may differ.

Is Char Siu gluten-free?

Char Siu may not be gluten-free due to soy sauce, which typically contains gluten. Look for gluten-free soy sauce alternatives if needed.

How is Char Siu served?

Char Siu is often served sliced in dishes like rice, noodles, or as part of a dim sum platter.

Can you freeze Char Siu?

Yes, cooked Char Siu can be frozen for up to three months, but it’s best to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture.

What are common side dishes for Char Siu?

Common side dishes include steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables, which complement the flavor of the pork.

What is the origin of Char Siu?

Char Siu originated in Cantonese cuisine, dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty in China.

How do you know Char Siu is done cooking?

Char Siu is done when it reaches an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C) and has a nice caramelized glaze on the outside.

What can I use instead of hoisin sauce in Char Siu?

If you don’t have hoisin sauce, a mixture of soy sauce, peanut butter, and sugar can serve as an alternative.

Is Char Siu spicy?

Char Siu is not typically spicy; it is more sweet and savory, but you can add chili paste or hot sauce for a spicy kick if desired.