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Char siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is a popular dish with a rich, sweet, and savory flavor. Making authentic char siu at home can be simple and delicious, especially when using a wok. This guide will walk you through the steps to prepare traditional Chinese char siu using a wok.
Ingredients Needed
- 500g pork shoulder or pork belly
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maltose
- 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon red fermented bean curd (optional for color)
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or Shaoxing wine
- Red food coloring (optional)
Preparation Steps
Start by slicing the pork into strips about 1.5 inches wide. Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Coat the pork thoroughly with the marinade, cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Cooking Process in a Wok
Heat your wok over medium heat. Once hot, place the marinated pork strips into the wok. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the meat develops a nice caramelized glaze. You can add a splash of water or rice wine to help create steam and prevent burning.
Brush the pork with honey or maltose during the last few minutes of cooking to enhance the shiny, sticky surface characteristic of authentic char siu. If you want a deeper red color, add a few drops of red food coloring to the marinade before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, let the char siu rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it hot with steamed rice, in buns, or as part of a larger Chinese meal. The tender, flavorful pork pairs well with vegetables and noodles.
Tips for Perfect Char Siu
- Marinate the pork overnight for maximum flavor.
- Use a wok with a lid for better heat retention and even cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness and color to your preference by varying honey and food coloring.
- Ensure the wok is not too hot to prevent burning the marinade.