Authentic Chinese Barbeque Pork (Char Siu)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Authentic Chinese Barbeque Pork (Char Siu).

1. Step 1

   To start, grab a saucepan and mix together soy sauce, honey, rice wine, hoisin sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, crushed garlic, five-spice powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and if you like, a pinch of curing salt.

2. Step 2

   Heat this delightful concoction over high heat until it reaches a boil, then lower the heat to medium-high and let it simmer for just a minute.

3. Step 3

   Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

4. Step 4

   While that’s cooling, take your pork roast and slice it in half lengthwise.

5. Step 5

   Then, cut each half again lengthwise to create four long, thick pieces of pork that are perfect for marinating.

6. Step 6

   Now, transfer your cooled marinade into a large mixing bowl and, if you want to add a pop of color, stir in some optional red food coloring.

7. Step 7

   Add the pork pieces to the bowl, making sure each piece is generously coated in that flavorful marinade.

8. Step 8

   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for anywhere from 4 to 12 hours—this is where the magic happens as the flavors meld beautifully.

9. Step 9

   When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to a medium heat, around 275 to 300 degrees F (135 to 150 degrees C), and give the grate a light oiling to prevent sticking.

10. Step 10

    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

11. Step 11

    Take the pork out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place the pieces on the prepared baking sheet.

12. Step 12

    Sprinkle them with kosher salt to taste, adding just the right amount of seasoning.

13. Step 13

    Now, it’s time to grill! Place the pork on the grill over indirect heat, cover it up, and let it cook for about 45 minutes.

14. Step 14

    Remember to brush it with the marinade and turn it occasionally for even cooking.

15. Step 15

    You’ll want to keep an eye on it until an instant-read thermometer shows at least 145 degrees F (63 degrees C), which should take about 1 hour and 15 minutes in total.

16. Step 16

    Just a tip: avoid brushing any marinade on the cooked meat until it has been boiled.

17. Step 17

    Speaking of which, take that leftover marinade and bring it to a boil in a saucepan, letting it simmer for a minute before removing it from the heat.

18. Step 18

    This boiled marinade is now ready to brush over your beautifully cooked pork, adding an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

19. Step 19

    Enjoy your delicious creation!.