Hello, food enthusiasts!
As a chef, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting flavors to bring to my kitchen. Lately, I’ve been diving deep into the rich and diverse world of Asian cuisine, and one dish that has truly captured my heart (and taste buds) is Char Siu. You will not be disappointed!
What is Char Siu?
Char Siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is a beloved dish in Cantonese cuisine. The name “Char Siu” translates to “fork roasted,” which refers to the traditional method of cooking the marinated pork on long forks over an open fire. This method gives the pork its signature smoky flavor and beautiful caramelized exterior.
The Flavor Profile
What makes Char Siu so irresistible is its unique blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The marinade typically includes ingredients like hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, and Shaoxing wine. This combination creates a rich, complex taste that is both comforting and exciting.
My Char Siu Recipe
While there are many variations of Char Siu, I wanted to share my take on this classic dish. Here’s a simple recipe you can try at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork belly
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red food coloring (optional, for that iconic red hue)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, and red food coloring. Add the pork and coat it thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roast the Pork: Place the marinated pork on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally with the leftover marinade.
- Caramelize: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until the pork is caramelized and slightly charred.
- Serve: Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.
Why I Love Char Siu
Char Siu is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and techniques that have been perfected over centuries. The balance of sweet and savory, the tender texture of the pork, and the beautiful caramelization make it a standout dish in any culinary repertoire.
As I continue my journey through Asian cuisine, I am constantly inspired by the depth and diversity of flavors. Char Siu is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to explore more dishes and share them with you.
Happy cooking!
Chef Heller
