Char Siu, the famous Chinese BBQ pork, is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, renowned for its caramelized, savory-sweet flavor. This Chinese BBQ Pork Tenderloin Char Siu recipe brings the restaurant experience straight to your kitchen. With a tender pork tenderloin and the perfect char siu marinade, youโll have a dish thatโs bursting with flavor.
In this recipe, weโll use pork tenderloin, which is perfect for absorbing the bold marinade, and then cook it to perfection for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The best part? You donโt need to fire up the grill โ your oven or air fryer will do the job just fine.
Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) pork tenderloin
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2 tbsp hoisin sauce
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2 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
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2 tbsp brown sugar (or regular sugar)
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1 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger
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1/4 tsp red food coloring (optional, for traditional color)
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1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for a thicker glaze)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Marinade:
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In a bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice wine, brown sugar, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger. If youโd like the traditional red color, add a few drops of red food coloring. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Marinate the Pork:
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Place the pork tenderloin into a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure the pork is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
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Preheat the Oven or Grill:
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Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) or prepare your grill for indirect heat.
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Cook the Pork Tenderloin:
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If cooking in the oven: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Place the marinated pork tenderloin on the rack. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145ยฐF (63ยฐC) and the exterior is slightly caramelized.
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If grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the pork tenderloin for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with extra marinade, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145ยฐF (63ยฐC).
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Glaze and Finish:
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While the pork is cooking, pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens into a glaze. If you want a thicker glaze, mix in the cornstarch and cook until itโs desired consistency.
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Serve:
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Once the pork tenderloin is cooked, remove it from the oven or grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Brush with the glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
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Serving Suggestions:
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Serve your Char Siu Pork Tenderloin with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh Asian-style slaw.
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Slice it up and serve as an appetizer, or use it as a filling for bao buns or sandwiches.
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Pair with a side of crispy spring rolls for a complete Chinese-inspired meal.
Why This Recipe Works:
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Tender Pork Tenderloin: The pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe because itโs lean, tender, and can easily absorb the sweet and savory marinade.
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Rich Flavor: The combination of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and five-spice powder gives the pork its signature char siu flavor.
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Easy & Quick: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be cooked in the oven or on the grill, making it a convenient choice for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
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Glaze for Extra Flavor: The homemade glaze, made from the marinade, adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness that elevates the dish.
Final Thoughts:
This Chinese BBQ Pork Tenderloin Char Siu recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Chinese dish in your own kitchen. Itโs tender, juicy, and full of that unmistakable char siu flavor. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
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