Cantonese barbecued pork, known as cha siu, is a beloved dish that exemplifies the rich culinary traditions of southern China. The succulent, tender meat infused with a perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors makes it a standout favorite among food enthusiasts. Among the variations, the sensational honey sauce takes this classic dish to a whole new level, culminating in an irresistible glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the surface. Let’s embark on a tantalizing journey to discover how to create this dish at home with a simple yet delectable honey sauce.
Ingredients
2 pounds of pork shoulder: The shoulder, known for its balanced fat content, is the ideal cut for achieving that meltinthemouth texture after cooking.
1/4 cup of soy sauce: Opt for a goodquality soy sauce, as it lends a rich umami flavor that enhances the overall dish.
1/4 cup of hoisin sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce adds depth and complexity to the marinade, accentuating the pork’s natural flavors.
2 tablespoons of Chinese rice wine or sherry: This ingredient helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with a subtle fragrance.
2 tablespoons of honey: The star of our honey sauce! It not only sweetens the dish but also aids in creating that enticing glossy finish.
3 tablespoons of sugar: A few tablespoons of sugar will enhance the caramelization process, giving the pork its signature charred edges.
1 teaspoon of fivespice powder: This aromatic blend of spices—typically star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorn, and fennel seeds—adds warmth and a distinct aromatic quality.
2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic adds a depth of flavor that rounds out the sweetness and enhances the overall savory profile.
1/4 teaspoon of red food coloring (optional): Traditionally, Cantonese barbecued pork has a vibrant red hue. While not necessary, a touch of food coloring can help achieve that authentic look.
Preparation
1. Marinade the Pork: In a large mixing bowl, blend the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice wine, honey, sugar, fivespice powder, minced garlic, and food coloring. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined. Place the pork shoulder in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, covering it thoroughly with the marinade. Allow the meat to marinate for at least four hours or, for optimal flavor, overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Sear the Pork: For those who crave an extra layer of textures, consider searing the marinated pork in a hot skillet with a little oil. This step adds depth and flavor, creating a delicious crust before you finish cooking it in the oven.
4. Roast the Pork: Transfer the pork onto a wire rack placed inside a baking tray to catch the drippings. Brush the remaining marinade over the pork, allowing it to glaze beautifully as it cooks. Roast for about 3040 minutes, basting the pork every 1015 minutes with the collected drippings, until it develops a glossy, caramelized exterior.
5. Prepare the Honey Glaze: While the pork is basking in the oven, take a small saucepan and combine additional honey with some of the drippings. Heat over low until warm and well mixed. This will be your glaze to give that extra punch of flavor right before serving.
6. Finish and Serve: Once the pork reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), remove it from the oven, and let it rest briefly. Brush the honey glaze over the shiny exterior for that final touch of sweetness. Slice the pork into thin pieces, showcasing the tender, juicy interior waking up to the senses.
Imagine serving this mouthwatering Cantonese barbecued pork with honey sauce over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, accompanied by steamed bok choy or a vibrant stirfry. Garnish with finely chopped green onions, and you’ve created a dish worthy of any celebration—or a simple weeknight dinner that delights and nourishes. Each bite resonates with the sweet, savory, and stunning characteristics of this beloved Cantonese classic, inviting everyone to savor the unique flavors of Chinese barbecue right in the comfort of your home.