Char Siu or Barbecued Pork – A Flavorful and Tender Chinese Dish

Char Siu or Barbecued Pork is a classic Cantonese dish that is popular not only in China but also in other parts of the world. It is a dish made with pork that has been marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, then roasted or grilled to perfection until it is juicy, tender, and slightly charred on the outside. The meat is often served with rice or noodles, and can also be used in other dishes like stir-fries or bao buns.

Here is an easy recipe for making Char Siu at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. boneless pork shoulder or loin
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 tablespoon shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Red food coloring (optional)
• Sliced scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cut the pork into strips that are about 1 inch wide and 2-3 inches long. Set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, shaoxing wine or dry sherry, garlic, and sesame oil. Mix well to make the marinade.
3. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to the marinade to give the pork a reddish color.
4. Place the pork strips in a resealable plastic bag or container and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat the meat evenly.
5. Refrigerate the pork for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top of it.
7. Remove the pork from the marinade and shake off any excess. Reserve the marinade for later.
8. Place the pork strips on the wire rack and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
9. Meanwhile, heat the reserved marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer for a few minutes, until it thickens and reduces slightly.
10. When the pork is done, brush the thickened marinade over it and let it rest for a few minutes.
11. Slice the pork into thin pieces and serve with rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced scallions.

Your delicious and flavorful Char Siu or Barbecued Pork is now ready to enjoy. It is a perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a tasty and authentic Chinese dish.