Authentic Char Siu Recipe

Char Siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is a delicious and savory dish that is popular in Chinese cuisine. The key to a truly authentic and flavorful Char Siu lies in the marinade and the cooking method. Follow this traditional recipe to create your own flavorful Char Siu at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb pork shoulder or pork belly - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tbsp honey - 2 tbsp hoisin sauce - 1 tbsp soy sauce - 1 tbsp oyster sauce - 1 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder - 1 tsp sesame oil - 1/2 tsp red food coloring (optional, for color) - 2 tbsp shaoxing wine or dry sherry - Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marinade by combining the minced garlic, honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, sesame oil, red food coloring (if using), and shaoxing wine in a bowl. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

2. Cut the pork shoulder or pork belly into long strips, about 1 inch wide, and place them in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.

3. Season the pork with salt and pepper, then pour the marinade over the pork, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and marinate the pork in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven is heating up.

5. Place the marinated pork strips on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, leaving some space between each piece. Reserve the marinade for basting.

6. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, turning and basting the meat with the reserved marinade every 10 minutes, until the pork is caramelized and cooked through. You can also finish the Char Siu under the broiler for a few minutes to get a nice char on the edges.

7. Once cooked, remove the Char Siu from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

8. Serve the Authentic Char Siu hot with steamed rice, noodles, or in bao buns. Garnish with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds, if desired.

Enjoy the sweet, savory, and tender flavors of this Authentic Char Siu that will transport your taste buds to a bustling Chinese street market. Share this delightful dish with family and friends, and savor the delicious taste of homemade Chinese BBQ pork.