Meat, Prepared Food | N/ A ( High fat sugar; not for specific diets)

Chinese Barbecue Pork

N/A (Composite Food Product - Char Siu) Allergens: Soy, Wheat (if soy sauce used)
Chinese Barbecue Pork

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Sus scrofa domesticus (Pork)
  • Primary Cuisine Chinese (Cantonese)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Pork (shoulder/loin), Soy sauce, Honey/Sugar, Hoisin, Five-spice powder

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

Also known as Char Siu, this is Cantonese-style roasted pork, characterized by its glossy, reddish exterior and savory-sweet, tender interior.

Sensory Profile

TasteSavory, Sweet, Umami, Five-Spice, Slightly Salty
TextureTender, Juicy, Slightly Chewy exterior
AromaAromatic, Roasted, Sweet, Five-Spice
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 100 g
Calories300 kcal
Total Fat18 g
Saturated Fat7 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol80 mg
Protein25 g
Total Carbohydrate8 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars7 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron1.5 mg
Potassium350 mg

Chef’s Secret

For perfect Char Siu, marinate overnight, roast at high heat then lower, and baste frequently with a honey-based glaze in the final stages for that signature sticky, caramelized crust.

Substitutions

Best Match

Roasted Pork Belly (with glaze)

1:1

Offers rich pork flavor and tenderness, can be seasoned similarly.

Hoisin Glazed Chicken/Tofu

1:1

For similar sweet-savory glaze and umami, uses different protein.

Korean BBQ Pork

1:1

Another Asian-style marinated pork, different flavor profile (often spicier, sesame).

Slow Cooker Pork (shredded)

1:1

Achieves similar tenderness, can be sauced with BBQ or hoisin.

Buying Guide

Purchase from reputable Asian markets or restaurants. Look for a glossy, appealing red hue and tender texture.

Flavor Pairings

Rice noodles bao buns stir-fries spring rolls salads.

Recipes Using Chinese Barbecue Pork

Barbecue Pork Buns image 145
Spicy Steam Preparation Course

Barbecue Pork Buns

Indulge in the irresistible flavor of authentic-looking barbecue pork buns! These sweet and savory buns boast a deliciously thick, homemade barbecue sauce and tender pork filling. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal, prepare them a day ahead or simply re-steam frozen buns for a quick 5-minute delight. Get ready for a taste sensation!

See Complete Recipe