Cantonese Char Siu Pork: A Flavorful Chinese Delight
Transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Canton with this mouthwatering Cantonese Char Siu Pork recipe. Char Siu, meaning “fork-roasted,” is a beloved Chinese dish featuring succulent strips of pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then roasted to perfection. With a combination of hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, and aromatic spices, this dish captures the essence of Cantonese cuisine in every bite. Whether served as a main course or used as a flavorful filling in buns or fried rice, Cantonese Char Siu Pork is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and experience the irresistible flavors of this classic Chinese dish!
Ingredients:
- 3 lb pork shoulder, cut into 3” strips
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup honey, plus two tablespoons
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon beetroot powder (optional, for color)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, Chinese five spice powder, and vegetable oil. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined and the sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder strips in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pork to absorb the marinade.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the remaining two tablespoons of honey with a tablespoon of water. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the honey is liquefied. This will be used as a glaze for the pork.
- Roast the Pork: Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and place the strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. If using beetroot powder for color, sprinkle it evenly over the pork strips. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized, turning once halfway through the cooking time.
- Glaze the Pork: During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the honey glaze over the pork strips, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will add a beautiful shine and additional sweetness to the char siu.
- Rest and Serve: Once the pork is cooked through and caramelized to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy pork. Slice the char siu pork into thin strips and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Char Siu Sauce Variation: Customize the marinade to your taste by adjusting the sweetness or adding additional spices such as garlic, ginger, or star anise for extra flavor.
- Grilling Option: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the marinated pork strips over medium-high heat on a barbecue grill instead of roasting them in the oven.
- Leftover Char Siu: Char siu pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Enjoy it cold as a snack or reheat it gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder for this recipe? While pork shoulder is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, you can use pork loin or pork tenderloin as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts may not be as juicy or flavorful as pork shoulder.
2. Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of honey? Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, brown rice syrup, or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of sweetness.
3. What can I serve with Cantonese Char Siu Pork? Char siu pork pairs well with steamed white rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or stir-fried greens for a balanced meal.
4. Can I freeze the marinated pork before cooking? Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before roasting or grilling.
Cantonese Char Siu Pork is a quintessential dish in Cantonese cuisine, known for its succulent texture and irresistible sweet and savory flavor profile. With a simple marinade featuring hoisin sauce, honey, and aromatic spices, this dish captures the essence of Chinese culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed as a main course or incorporated into other dishes, such as noodles or buns, Cantonese Char Siu Pork is sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of Canton. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and embark on a culinary journey with this delicious and flavorful char siu pork recipe
