Char Siu Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Char Siu Ingredients

Char Siu Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into long strips about 2 inches thick.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 3 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce, 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon five-spice powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper, 1 tablespoon mashed fermented red bean curd (if using), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and 1 tablespoon ketchup. Mix thoroughly to form the marinade.
  3. Add the pork strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, turning the pork once or twice during marination.
  4. Remove the pork from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
  5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and set a rack in the upper third of the oven. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  6. Arrange the marinated pork strips on the wire rack, letting excess marinade drip off. Reserve the leftover marinade.
  7. Roast the pork for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, combine 1/4 cup water with the reserved marinade in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then strain to use as a basting glaze.
  8. After 20 minutes, baste the pork with the glaze and flip the strips. Roast for another 15 minutes.
  9. Mix 1 tablespoon honey with a little of the glaze and brush it over the pork. Increase the oven temperature to broil and broil the pork for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the edges are caramelized and slightly charred.
  10. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing into thin pieces.

Estimated Calories: 252, Servings: 4

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Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, the best way to keep your Char Siu fresh and delicious is to use an airtight container and refrigerate it as soon as it cools. This easy step helps lock in the recipe's signature flavors and keeps the meat juicy for days. For those who love a quick meal prep, slicing the Char Siu before storing makes it fast and convenient to grab a portion whenever you crave a healthy, protein-packed bite.
Shelf life is a good thing to keep in mind if you want to enjoy your Char Siu at its peak. Properly stored, this Cantonese favorite will stay great in the fridge for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is a fast and effective solution that preserves the delicious taste and texture, ensuring you always have a tasty meal ready to go.
Reheating is where you can really make this recipe shine again. For the best results, gently warm your Char Siu in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist and tender. This method is easy and helps retain the great flavors and caramelized edges that make this dish so special, turning leftovers into a quick, mouthwatering meal that feels just as fresh as the first serving.

Char Siu Story

I will never forget the first time I shared my version of this recipe with a friend who was always skeptical about trying new things. She was in a rush that day, looking for something quick and easy to eat before heading out again. I assured her that this dish was not only fast to prepare but also packed with flavor. As she took her first bite, her eyes widened in surprise, and she immediately asked for seconds. It was one of those moments that made me realize how a good meal can change someone's entire perspective.
What truly stayed with me was her reaction after finishing. She told me it was the best thing she had tasted in a long time and that she never expected something so delicious could also be healthy. She even asked for the recipe, eager to recreate it at home for her family. That simple request was a great compliment, and it reminded me that sharing food is about more than just feeding people-it is about creating connections and memories.
Since then, I have made it a point to invite others to try this dish, always hoping for that same spark of delight. The experience taught me that sometimes the most unexpected reactions come from the simplest, most honest moments. If you are looking for something that is easy to make, good for you, and sure to impress, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Who knows, it might just become your new favorite, too.

Char Siu Quick Mistake Fixes

When it comes to creating a truly delicious Char Siu, balancing flavors is key. Sometimes, even the best intentions can lead to a dish that is either too sweet or too salty. The good news is that with a quick taste test before serving, you can make fast, last minute changes to achieve that perfect harmony. A splash of citrus or a dash of honey can work wonders, transforming a good meal into a great one. This approach not only saves your recipe but also ensures a healthy and satisfying experience for everyone at the table.
One common pitfall with Char Siu is ending up with meat that is dry rather than juicy. This can happen if the cooking process is rushed or the heat is too high. The best way to avoid this is to keep a close eye on the texture and moisture, making adjustments as needed. A quick brush of marinade or a short rest after cooking can help lock in those delicious juices, making the dish easy to enjoy and ensuring every bite is as tender as it should be. Remember, a little patience goes a long way toward a great result.
Appearance matters just as much as flavor, especially with a dish as iconic as Char Siu. If the color is off or the glaze is uneven, it can affect the overall appeal, no matter how tasty the recipe is. Taking a few extra moments to ensure an even coating and a glossy finish can make your dish look as good as it tastes. A beautiful presentation invites everyone to dig in, turning a simple meal into a fast favorite that feels both special and inviting.

Char Siu Tips

Unlock the secret to the best homemade Char Siu with this easy recipe, inspired by generations of Cantonese culinary tradition. The key to achieving that perfect, glossy finish and irresistible flavor lies in balancing your ingredients and mastering the art of marination. For a truly authentic experience, use a combination of sweet, savory, and umami-rich elements-this is how to make your Char Siu stand out from the rest.
To create a delicious and quick Char Siu, focus on the marinade. Let the pork soak up all those tasty flavors overnight for maximum depth. This simple step transforms your dish, ensuring every bite is juicy and packed with character. If you're short on time, even a few hours will yield a tasty result, but patience always pays off for the best outcome.
For that signature Cantonese color and caramelization, roast your pork at a high temperature and baste frequently. This tip guarantees a sticky, shiny glaze that's both visually stunning and mouthwateringly delicious. Don't forget to let the meat rest before slicing-this ensures your homemade Char Siu remains tender and succulent.
Experiment with different cuts of pork to find your perfect texture. Some prefer a leaner bite, while others love the richness of fattier pieces. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility-make it your own by adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste. Share your results and favorite tips with friends and family, and invite them to experience the best, most authentic Char Siu right from your kitchen.

About Char Siu Recipe

If you're on a quest for the best homemade Char Siu recipe, you've just hit the jackpot. This Cantonese classic is the ultimate answer to "how to make" a quick, easy, and delicious pork dish that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. The secret to perfect Char Siu lies in the balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, all thanks to a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Forget takeout-this recipe is so tasty and authentic, you'll want to brag about it at your next dinner party.
Let's talk about the magic behind this easy Char Siu recipe. The marinade is the real MVP here, combining soy sauce, hoisin, honey, and a few other key ingredients to create that signature sticky glaze. If you're wondering how to make your pork extra juicy and flavorful, here's a pro tip: let it marinate overnight. Not only does this step guarantee the best results, but it also gives you more time to binge-watch your favorite shows. When you finally pop it in the oven, your kitchen will smell so good, even your neighbors might "accidentally" drop by.
For those who want a quick and simple way to impress, this authentic Cantonese Char Siu recipe is your new best friend. Whether you're a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef, these tips will help you achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality finish every time. Serve your homemade Char Siu with steamed rice, noodles, or just eat it straight off the tray (we won't judge). With this easy and tasty recipe, you'll never have to wonder how to make the best Char Siu again-just follow the steps, use the right ingredients, and enjoy the delicious results!