Cantonese Char Siu Recipe | How did you make this

 

Char Siu is a popular Cantonese dish that is enjoyed around the world. It is a type of roasted meat that is typically made with pork and has a sweet and savory flavor. Char Siu can be served as a main dish, sliced into thin pieces and served with rice or noodles, or used as a filling in sandwiches and baozi (steamed buns). In this recipe, we will show you how to make Cantonese Char Siu at home.

Ingredients:

1 lb. pork belly or pork shoulder

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup hoisin sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tbsp. Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)

2 tbsp. oyster sauce

2 tbsp. brown sugar

1 tbsp. sesame oil

1 tbsp. five-spice powder

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced

Red food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

Cut the pork into long strips that are about 1 inch thick.

In a bowl, mix together the honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice wine, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger.

Add a few drops of red food coloring to the mixture if you want the char siu to have a deeper red color. This is optional, but it is often done in restaurants to make the meat more visually appealing.

Place the pork strips in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the pork. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the meat, making sure that every piece is coated. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the pork marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then place a wire rack over it.

Remove the pork from the marinade and place the strips on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece.

Bake the pork for 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the outside is caramelized and slightly charred.

Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into thin pieces.

Serve the char siu with rice or noodles, or use it as a filling in sandwiches or baozi.

Tips:

Pork belly is the traditional cut of meat used for char siu, but pork shoulder can also be used if you prefer leaner meat.

If you don't have Chinese rice wine, you can use dry sherry instead.

Make sure to line the baking sheet with aluminum foil to make clean up easier.

If you want a more authentic flavor, you can use maltose instead of honey in the marinade. Maltose is a type of sugar that is commonly used in Chinese cooking.

If you don't have a wire rack, you can place the pork directly on the aluminum foil, but the bottom of the meat may not be as crispy.

Leftover char siu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

char siu Some more important things about

What does char siu mean in Cantonese?

In Cantonese, "char siu" (叉燒) refers to a type of roasted meat, usually made from pork, that is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and then roasted until the exterior is crispy and the interior is juicy and tender. It is a popular dish in Cantonese cuisine and is often served with rice or noodles, or used as a filling in buns or pastries. The marinade typically includes ingredients such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey or sugar, Chinese five spice powder, and sometimes red food coloring to give the meat a distinctive reddish color.

What is char siu sauce made of?

Char siu sauce is a popular Chinese sauce that is commonly used to marinate and flavor char siu, a type of Cantonese barbecue pork. The sauce is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sugar, Chinese five spice powder, garlic, and sometimes red food coloring.

Here's a simple recipe for char siu sauce:

Ingredients:

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup hoisin sauce

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon Chinese five spice powder

2 garlic cloves, minced

1-2 drops of red food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, brown sugar, Chinese five spice powder, and minced garlic until well combined.

Add 1-2 drops of red food coloring, if desired, and whisk to combine.

Use the char siu sauce immediately to marinate your pork, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

What makes char siu pink?

Char siu is typically characterized by its reddish-pink color, which comes from the use of red food coloring in the marinade or glaze. However, in some traditional recipes, the color comes from other ingredients such as fermented red bean curd, red yeast rice or maltose.

In modern times, red food coloring is often used to give the pork its distinctive color. This is because the use of food coloring provides a consistent and predictable result, and is widely available and affordable. However, some people prefer to use natural ingredients to achieve the color, and they may use substitutes such as beetroot juice, tomato paste or paprika.

It's worth noting that the pink color of char siu is not necessary for the flavor, and you can still achieve delicious char siu without the use of food coloring or other color additives. The flavor comes mainly from the combination of the ingredients used in the marinade or glaze, and the cooking method used to prepare the pork.

What is char siu called in Chinese?

Char siu is a Cantonese dish, and in Chinese, it is written as "叉烧" which is pronounced as "chā shāo". The Chinese term "叉烧" literally means "fork roast" or "fork barbecue", which refers to the method of cooking the pork by skewering it with long forks and roasting it over an open fire or in an oven.

Char siu is a popular dish in Cantonese cuisine and is often served as a main dish or used as a filling for various dishes such as buns, noodles, or rice dishes. It is a versatile dish with a sweet and savory flavor that is enjoyed by many people around the world.

What is Cantonese style?

Cantonese style refers to the culinary traditions and cooking techniques that are associated with the Cantonese people, who are from the Guangdong province in southern China, as well as Hong Kong and Macau. Cantonese cuisine is one of the most well-known regional cuisines in China and is characterized by its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, delicate flavors, and beautiful presentation.

Some of the key characteristics of Cantonese cuisine include:

A wide variety of ingredients, including seafood, poultry, pork, beef, vegetables, and fruits.

Light and delicate seasoning, with an emphasis on preserving the natural flavors of the ingredients.

A range of cooking techniques, including stir-frying, steaming, braising, and roasting.

The use of sauces and condiments, such as oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil, to enhance the flavor of the dishes.

A focus on texture, with an emphasis on achieving a balance of soft and crispy textures in each dish.

An emphasis on presentation, with dishes often garnished with colorful vegetables, fruits, or edible flowers.

Some of the most well-known Cantonese dishes include dim sum, roast pork, crispy fried chicken, wonton noodle soup, and stir-fried vegetables. Cantonese cuisine has had a significant influence on the development of Chinese cuisine around the world, and many of its dishes are popular in Chinese restaurants worldwide.

Is char siu pork unhealthy?

Char siu pork can be high in calories, fat, and sugar, depending on how it is prepared and served. The marinade or glaze used to flavor the pork often contains sugar and can contribute to the high calorie and sugar content. Additionally, the use of fatty cuts of pork or cooking methods that involve a lot of oil can increase the fat content.

However, char siu pork can be part of a healthy and balanced diet when consumed in moderation and prepared with healthier cooking methods. Here are some tips to make char siu pork healthier:

Use lean cuts of pork such as pork tenderloin or loin instead of fattier cuts.

Use less sugar in the marinade or glaze, or use natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.

Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce the sodium content.

Use healthier cooking methods such as grilling, baking, or broiling instead of deep-frying or pan-frying.

Serve char siu pork with plenty of vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal.

Overall, it's important to consume char siu pork in moderation and as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

How is char siu traditionally made?

Char siu is traditionally made by marinating strips or cubes of pork in a flavorful mixture of ingredients, then roasting or barbecuing the pork until it is tender and caramelized. The marinade typically includes a combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sugar, Chinese five spice powder, and sometimes fermented red bean curd or red yeast rice, which gives the pork its distinctive red color.

The preparation method varies depending on the regional and personal preferences, but traditionally, char siu pork is roasted over a fire or in a clay oven. The pork is typically skewered on long forks, then hung over the fire or placed in the oven to cook slowly, allowing the marinade to caramelize and the pork to become tender and flavorful.

In modern times, char siu pork is often prepared using an oven or a grill, which can be more accessible and convenient than traditional methods. However, the key to achieving the traditional flavor and texture of char siu pork is to use a flavorful marinade and to cook the pork slowly at a low temperature until it is tender and caramelized.

Why is char siu so good?

Char siu is a delicious dish with a unique and complex flavor profile that makes it popular among many people around the world. There are several reasons why char siu is so good:

The marinade: The marinade used to flavor the pork typically includes a combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sugar, and Chinese five spice powder, which creates a rich and savory flavor with a hint of sweetness. The marinade also helps to tenderize the pork and infuse it with flavor.

The caramelized glaze: Char siu pork is often coated with a glaze made from the marinade and then roasted or barbecued, which creates a sticky and caramelized crust on the outside of the pork. This adds a layer of texture and flavor to the dish, with a slightly sweet and smoky taste.

The red color: The use of red food coloring or natural red ingredients such as fermented red bean curd or red yeast rice gives char siu its distinctive reddish-pink color, which adds to its visual appeal.

Versatility: Char siu pork can be enjoyed on its own as a main dish or used as a filling for buns, noodles, or rice dishes. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for a wide range of dishes.

Overall, the combination of the marinade, caramelized glaze, and unique flavor profile make char siu pork a delicious and satisfying dish that many people enjoy.

Char siu marinade

Here's a basic recipe for char siu marinade:

Ingredients:

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup hoisin sauce

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon Chinese five spice powder

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon minced ginger

1/4 cup Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional)

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients and whisk together until the sugar is dissolved.

Add the pork to the marinade and toss to coat. If using sliced pork, make sure each piece is coated evenly. If using larger cuts of pork, score the meat with a sharp knife to allow the marinade to penetrate.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Turn the pork occasionally to ensure even marination.

When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the pork from the marinade and transfer to a baking dish lined with foil.

Brush the pork with additional marinade or glaze and roast in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, the pork can be grilled or barbecued for a smokier flavor.

Note: This recipe can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. For example, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or sugar. You can also add other ingredients such as red bean curd, red yeast rice, or sesame oil to customize the flavor.

Char siu sauce recipe

Here is a basic recipe for char siu sauce:

Ingredients:

1/2 cup hoisin sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine or dry sherry

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon grated ginger

1-2 drops red food coloring (optional, for color)

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all ingredients until well combined.

Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or saltiness if necessary, by adding more honey or soy sauce.

Use the sauce immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Note: This recipe can be adjusted to your personal preferences. You can add or subtract ingredients to make the sauce sweeter, spicier or more savory. If you don't have Chinese rice wine or dry sherry, you can substitute with a dry white wine or rice vinegar. The red food coloring is optional, and can be omitted if desired.

Char siu chicken

Char siu chicken is a Chinese dish that features tender pieces of chicken that have been marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and then grilled or roasted to perfection. The name "char siu" refers to the cooking method, which involves roasting the meat until it is slightly charred and caramelized.

To make char siu chicken, you will need to start by marinating the chicken. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey or brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. You can also add some red food coloring to achieve the signature red color of char siu meat.

Once the chicken has been marinated for several hours or overnight, it can be cooked on a grill or in the oven. The key is to cook it over high heat so that it gets nicely charred on the outside but stays juicy and tender on the inside.

Char siu chicken is often served as a main dish, along with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables. It's a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy chicken, and it's a popular dish in many Chinese restaurants around the world.

Char siu air fryer

Char siu can also be cooked in an air fryer, which is a convenient and healthy cooking method that requires less oil compared to traditional frying. Here's a simple recipe to make char siu chicken in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts, cut into small pieces

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ginger powder

Red food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Add a few drops of red food coloring if desired.

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Air fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, flipping once halfway through the cooking time.

Serve the char siu chicken with steamed rice and vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy char siu chicken cooked in an air fryer!

Char siu pork belly

Char siu pork belly is a popular Chinese dish that consists of tender and juicy pork belly that has been marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then roasted or grilled until slightly charred and caramelized. Here's a simple recipe to make char siu pork belly:

Ingredients:

1 lb (450 g) pork belly, sliced into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick pieces

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or dry sherry

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ginger powder

Red food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, Chinese rice wine, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Add a few drops of red food coloring if desired.

Add the pork belly slices to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours or up to overnight.

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

Remove the pork belly from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

Roast the pork belly in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are slightly charred and the meat is cooked through.

Baste the pork belly with any remaining marinade during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Let the pork belly rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serve the char siu pork belly with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meale

Conclusion:

Char Siu is a delicious and versatile dish that is easy to make at home. This Cantonese-style recipe uses a flavorful marinade that combines sweet and savory ingredients like honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and five-spice powder. The pork is then roasted in the oven until it is caramelized and slightly charred on the outside. Serve the char siu with rice