Why is Chinese BBQ pork red?

The distinct red color comes from ingredients like red food colouring and red bean curd traditionally used in the marinade.

What's the difference between pork and Char Siu?

Char Siu refers to a specific style of Chinese BBQ pork, marinated and roasted to achieve its unique taste and color.

Is the artificial red coloring in Char Siu bad for you?

Is the red coloring in Char Siu harmful? If using red bean curd, then it's a healthier option since it's made from natural ingredients. However, the version with food coloring is not as healthy. That being said, the small amount of red food coloring used in Char Siu is generally considered safe when consumed in moderation.

What is the term Char Siu in reference to Chinese food?

Char Siu is a specific method of preparing BBQ pork, renowned for its sweet and savory flavors.

What is red-cooked pork?

Red-cooked pork is a Chinese dish where pork is braised in a savory and slightly sweet soy-based sauce.

Red Pork (Char Siu BBQ Pork)

Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of sticky, sweet, succulent, and tender red pork (char Siu BBQ pork). Get ready to savor every mouthwatering bite of this deliciously satisfying dish!

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds Pork shoulder or butt. See notes on the cut of pork recommended for this.
1 table garlic, minced finely
1 cube red fermented tofu and 1/2 tablespoon of the red liquid.
2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice powder.
2 tablespoons Sweet soy sauce
2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons Hoison sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine. Optional
1 teaspoon Sesame oil. Optional
1 teaspoon White or black pepper.
2 teaspoon Rice wine vinegar. I
1 1/2 Brown sugar
Red food coloring. Optional.
3 tablespoons water.

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine all the marinating ingredients together to create a flavorful marinade. Leave the pork out for the next step.
Marinate pork strips in the mixture, ensuring an even coat. Place the meat in a zip bag and refrigerate for 24-48 hours.
Preheat the oven and place the marinated pork on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet. Roast the pork at an oven temperature of 375°F, basting with the reserved marinade until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F.
Add a little water to a cup, up to the bottom of the pan if the meat gets too dry. Flip the meat every 20 minutes and brush more leftover marinade for extra flavor.
Allow the pork to rest before slicing it into mouthwatering, sticky-sweet Char Siu perfection.

Notes

If you have a lot of excess marinade sauce, especially with a shorter marinating time, cook the sauce on medium-low heat for 5 minutes and use the sauce for dipping your red pork.
Cooking time can be slightly different in each oven range. Add 10-15 minutes of cooking time if necessary. Add more or less time as necessary.
Use a Meat thermometer to help gauge the doneness of the meat.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: pork recipes
Method: oven
Cuisine: Thai