Chinese BBQ Pork – Char Siu

Skip the takeout menu and bring authentic flavors to your own kitchen with this Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) recipe!

With its juicy, tender inside and perfectly caramelized crust, this dish captures everything you love about restaurant-style barbecue pork—only it’s simple enough to make at home.

Marinated overnight in a savory-sweet sauce, then roasted until golden and slightly charred, every bite is packed with flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, over fluffy rice, or alongside your favorite Chinese dishes, this homemade Char Siu is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

⭐ Juicy pork with a sweet, sticky glaze that tastes just like takeout.
⭐ Easy to prepare—just marinate, roast, and enjoy!
⭐ Perfect for meal prep, since it stores and reheats beautifully.
⭐ Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, main dish, or with fried rice and dumplings.
⭐ Authentic flavors without complicated cooking techniques.

What is Char Siu?

Char Siu, which translates to “fork roasted,” is a traditional Cantonese dish made by roasting marinated pork until it develops its signature glossy red glaze and smoky-sweet flavor.

Traditionally, it’s made with whole pork cuts that are roasted on skewers, but this recipe takes a simpler approach by cutting the pork into bite-sized cubes before roasting.

This not only reduces the cooking time but also allows the marinade to penetrate deeply, creating tender, flavorful pieces with caramelized edges.

While this isn’t the most traditional version, it’s a practical, approachable take on a beloved classic that you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Chinese BBQ Pork at home, you’ll need a handful of bold Asian pantry staples:

Boneless pork shoulder or pork butt – Rich and juicy cuts that won’t dry out in the oven.
Hoisin sauce – Adds sweetness and depth with classic Chinese BBQ flavor.
Soy sauce – Brings savory umami balance to the marinade.
Oyster sauce – Enhances richness with a subtle salty-sweet taste.
Garlic – Fresh cloves for a fragrant punch.
Garlic powder – Deepens the flavor even further.
Red pepper flakes – For a touch of heat (adjust to taste).
Black pepper – Rounds out the seasoning.
Granulated sugar – Sprinkled before baking for that irresistible caramelized crust.
Green onions – For garnish and a fresh finish.

Best Cut of Pork for Char Siu

For the most flavorful and juicy results, stick with pork shoulder or pork butt.

These cuts have just the right amount of marbling, ensuring the meat stays moist during roasting.

Leaner cuts like pork loin tend to dry out, so fattier cuts are the way to go for authentic Char Siu texture and flavor.

How to Make Chinese BBQ Pork (Step by Step)

Prepare the Pork – Cut the pork into 1-inch cubes. Smaller pieces cook faster and absorb the marinade more evenly.
Make the Marinade – In a bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
Marinate Overnight – Add pork to the bowl, tossing to coat each piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (overnight is best).
Preheat the Oven – When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment or foil.
Arrange and Sprinkle – Spread marinated pork in an even layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle sugar evenly over the top to help form a caramelized crust.
Roast – Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Optional Broil for Char – For that signature charred finish, broil each side for 3–4 minutes, or place the pork on a hot grill for a few minutes per side.

Serving Suggestions

This Chinese BBQ Pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it:

With steamed white rice and thinly sliced green onions.
As part of a homemade Chinese takeout night with fried rice, dumplings, or bok choy.
Sliced thin as an appetizer or tucked into bao buns for a snackable option.

Storing Leftovers

Char Siu tastes just as good the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

You can also freeze cooked pork for up to 2 months—just reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to bring back the flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) is a flavorful, family-friendly dish that’s easier than you might think.

With its balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes whenever you’re craving Chinese takeout at home.

Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Bite & Bliss