Name: Savory Char Siu Grilled Pork: 5 Reasons to Indulge
Prep time: 24 h
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 24 h 45 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1.5 kg Pork belly (skin-removed strips for tenderness); 4 cloves Garlic (finely minced); 1 medium Shallot (finely minced); 1.5 tbsp Soy sauce (for umami flavor); 3 tbsp Oyster sauce (adds richness); 3 tbsp Dark soy sauce (for depth of color and flavor); 4 cubes Chinese fermented red bean curd (mashed); 4 tbsp Brine from red bean curd (for extra taste); 3 tbsp Honey (to balance flavors); 3 tbsp Shaoxing wine (for fragrance); 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder (for warm spice blend); 3 tbsp White sugar (for caramelization); pinch White pepper (for subtle heat); 0.75 tsp Red food coloring liquid (optional for color); to taste Steamed rice (to soak up glaze); to taste Cucumber slices (for refreshing crunch)

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Char Siu Grilled Pork is a must-try for any fan of Asian cuisine. This savory dish, often known as Chinese BBQ Pork, showcases tender pork belly marinated in a rich blend of sauces and spices, then grilled to perfection. The result is a deliciously sticky, sweet, and smoky flavor that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. With its vibrant red color and mouthwatering aroma, Char Siu is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Ready to make this at home? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Char Siu Grilled Pork

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Char Siu Grilled Pork. First, it is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey. Second, the marinade is simple to prepare, making this an easy Asian BBQ Pork recipe that anyone can master. Third, it’s versatile; you can enjoy it with rice, in a stir-fry, or on its own. Additionally, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, this dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. With these benefits, it’s no wonder Char Siu Pork is so popular!

Ingredients for Char Siu Grilled Pork

Gather these items:

1.5 kg Pork belly (skin-removed strips for tenderness)
4 cloves Garlic (finely minced)
1 medium Shallot (finely minced)
1.5 tbsp Soy sauce (for umami flavor)
3 tbsp Oyster sauce (adds richness)
3 tbsp Dark soy sauce (for depth of color and flavor)
4 cubes Chinese fermented red bean curd (mashed)
4 tbsp Brine from red bean curd (for extra taste)
3 tbsp Honey (to balance flavors)
3 tbsp Shaoxing wine (for fragrance)
1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder (for warm spice blend)
3 tbsp White sugar (for caramelization)
pinch White pepper (for subtle heat)
0.75 tsp Red food coloring liquid (optional for color)
to taste Steamed rice (to soak up glaze)
to taste Cucumber slices (for refreshing crunch)

How to Make Char Siu Grilled Pork Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until smooth and glossy. Add pork belly strips, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours, turning once or twice.
Step 2: Prepare the fire bowl with lump charcoal, light using natural fire starter, keep lid open until coals are glowing and covered with ash (about 20 minutes).
Step 3: Heat grill grates and fully open the bottom vent. Let reach optimal temperature for about 10 minutes. Remove pork from marinade, letting excess drip off, reserve for basting. Grill pork strips for 12-15 minutes, turning and glazing often until charred.
Step 4: Transfer grilled pork to a baking tray on the grill. Do one final glaze with reserved marinade and close the Kamado lid. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Rest the pork for 5-10 minutes before slicing to ensure juiciness.

Pro Tips for the Best Char Siu Grilled Pork

Keep these in mind:

Marinate the pork for at least 24 hours to enhance flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe temperature of 145°F.
For extra char, consider finishing under a broiler for a minute or two.
Resting the meat is crucial for juiciness; don’t skip this step!

Best Ways to Serve Char Siu Grilled Pork

There are many delicious ways to enjoy Char Siu Grilled Pork. One popular option is to serve it with steamed rice, allowing the rice to soak up the flavorful glaze. Alternatively, you can slice it thinly for use in a stir-fry or as a topping for noodles. For a refreshing touch, add cucumber slices on the side to balance the richness of the pork.

How to Store and Reheat Char Siu Grilled Pork

Leftover Char Siu Grilled Pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the oven or on a grill to retain its juiciness. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep; just make sure to plan your portions accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions About Char Siu Grilled Pork

What’s the secret to perfect Char Siu Grilled Pork?

The secret lies in the marinade! A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors creates that signature taste. Utilize the best marinade for Char Siu Pork, and let it sit overnight for optimal flavor absorption.

Can I make Char Siu Grilled Pork ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate the pork a day in advance and grill it just before serving. This way, the flavors deepen, and you can enjoy a delicious meal without last-minute stress.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Char Siu Grilled Pork?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you don’t rush the marinating process. Additionally, keep an eye on the grill temperature to prevent burning. Follow the Char Siu pork cooking tips for the best results!

Variations of Char Siu Grilled Pork You Can Try

While the classic recipe is delightful, you can also experiment with variations. For instance, try using different cuts of meat like pork shoulder or even chicken for a lighter option. You can also incorporate various sauces, such as a sweet chili glaze or a spicy barbecue sauce, to give it a personal twist. Enjoy the versatility of this Authentic Char Siu recipe!

Savory Char Siu Grilled Pork: 5 Reasons to Indulge - Char Siu Grilled Pork - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out this link for a variety of Asian dishes!

To learn more about the health benefits of pork, visit this informative article.

Finally, if you’re interested in meal prepping, see these tips for making the most out of your cooking!