Vietnamese/Chinese BBQ Pork (Thịt Xá Xíu/Char Siu)

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: pork loin

Chicken reduces fat content, while pork loin is more affordable.

fish sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce

💰Cheaper: salt

Soy sauce is lower in calories, and salt is a cost-effective substitute.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey offers natural sweetness, while brown sugar is usually cheaper.

rice noodles

🥗Healthier: zucchini noodles

💰Cheaper: spaghetti

Zucchini noodles are low-carb, and spaghetti is often more accessible.

Cut the pork into long strips about 1-1/2 to 2 inches wide. Make sure strips are uniform for even cooking.

In a small bowl, mix together red pork seasoning mix, five-spice powder, black/white pepper, garlic powder, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until you get a smooth paste.

Slather the mixture evenly on the pork strips and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight in the fridge for best results.

Preheat oven to 400°F. Set the pork on a wire rack over a pan lined with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.

Roast for 25 minutes. Flip the pork and roast for 20 more minutes.

Combine honey and hot water in a small bowl until completely dissolved.

Slather the honey glaze onto the pork with a brush.

Place it back into the oven and turn the heat up to 450°F. Bake for 5 minutes on each side to get a nice caramelized crust.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary