Hong Kong BBQ Pork: A Delicious Guide to Authentic Recipes and Cooking Tips

Hong Kong BBQ Pork, also known as Char Siu, is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts around the world. This succulent, sweet, and savory pork is marinated in a rich blend of spices and sauces, then roasted to perfection, creating a tantalizing glaze that is simply irresistible. The history of Hong Kong BBQ Pork dates back to the Cantonese culinary traditions, where it was often served during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

People adore this dish not only for its mouthwatering flavor but also for its delightful texture—juicy on the inside with a slightly caramelized exterior. Whether served over rice, in a noodle dish, or enjoyed on its own, Hong Kong BBQ Pork is a versatile meal that brings comfort and joy to any dining experience. Join me as we explore the art of making this iconic dish at home, and discover why it has become a staple in kitchens and restaurants alike!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of pork shoulder or pork belly
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Red food coloring (optional, for color)

Preparing the Marinade

To start, I like to prepare the marinade that will give our BBQ pork its signature flavor. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and Chinese rice wine. Whisk them together until well blended.
2. Add the five-spice powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and sesame oil to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly to create a smooth marinade.
3. If you want that classic red color, add a few drops of red food coloring to the marinade and mix well. This step is optional, but it does give the pork that authentic look.

Marinating the Pork

Now that the marinade is ready, it’s time to prepare the pork:

1. Take your pork shoulder or pork belly and trim any excess fat if necessary. I usually leave a little fat for flavor, but it’s up to your preference.
2. Cut the pork into long strips, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. This helps the marinade penetrate better and allows for even cooking.
3. Place the pork strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!

Preparing for Cooking

Once the pork has marinated, it’s time to get ready for cooking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the pork to achieve that tender, juicy texture.
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around the pork, ensuring even cooking.
3. Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the marinade for basting later.

Cooking the Pork

Now comes the exciting part—cooking the pork!

1. Place the marinated pork strips on the wire rack, making sure they are spaced out evenly. This helps them cook properly and develop a nice crust.
2. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, I like to baste the pork with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and flavorful.
3. After 25-30 minutes, check the internal temperature of the pork. It should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. If you prefer a more caramelized exterior, you can broil the pork for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Resting the Pork

Once the pork is cooked to perfection, it’s important to let it rest:

1. Remove the pork from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the pork even more tender.

Slicing and Serving

After the pork has rested, it’s time to slice and serve:

1. Using a sharp knife, slice the pork into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. I like to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.
   

   Conclusion:

   In summary, this Hong Kong BBQ Pork recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary skills and indulge in a deliciously authentic dish. The combination of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the vibrant color and glossy finish of the pork make it a stunning centerpiece for any meal. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this BBQ pork with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also slice it thinly and use it as a filling for bao buns or as a topping for noodle dishes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different marinades or adding a touch of spice to cater to your personal taste. I encourage you to give this Hong Kong BBQ Pork recipe a try and share your experience with me! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, I believe you’ll find joy in creating this dish. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your masterpiece and share it on social media—I’d love to see how your version turns out! Happy cooking!
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   Hong Kong BBQ Pork: A Delicious Guide to Authentic Recipes and Cooking Tips

   

   Print Recipe

   This BBQ pork recipe features tender, marinated pork shoulder or belly, infused with a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it delivers rich flavors and an impressive presentation.

   • Author: Dottie
   • Prep Time: 15 minutes
   • Cook Time: 30 minutes
   • Total Time: 285 minutes
   • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

   Ingredients

   Scale 1x2x3x

   • 2 pounds of pork shoulder or pork belly
   • 1/4 cup soy sauce
   • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
   • 1/4 cup honey
   • 2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
   • 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
   • 1 tablespoon sugar
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • 1 teaspoon black pepper
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
   • Red food coloring (optional, for color)

   Instructions

   1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and Chinese rice wine. Whisk them together until well blended.
   2. Add the five-spice powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and sesame oil to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly to create a smooth marinade.
   3. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to the marinade and mix well.
   4. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder or pork belly, leaving a little for flavor.
   5. Cut the pork into long strips, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
   6. Place the pork strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring each piece is well coated.
   7. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
   8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   9. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
   10. Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the marinade for basting.
   11. Place the marinated pork strips on the wire rack, spaced evenly.
   12. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Baste with reserved marinade halfway through.
   13. Check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 145°F (63°C). Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if a caramelized exterior is desired.
   14. Remove the pork from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
   15. Using a sharp knife, slice the pork into thin pieces, about 1/4 inch thick, cutting against the grain for maximum tenderness.

   Notes

   • For best results, marinate the pork overnight to enhance the flavor.
   • Adjust the amount of honey and sugar based on your sweetness preference.
   • Serve with steamed rice or in a bun for a delicious sandwich.