Few dishes capture the irresistible flavor of Chinese cuisine like Chinese BBQ Pork, also known as Char Siu. With its signature glossy red glaze, perfectly caramelized edges, and tender, juicy interior, Char Siu is one of the most iconic Cantonese dishes — and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Traditionally roasted over open flames or inside a Chinese-style oven, Char Siu is famous for its bold, sweet-savory marinade made from hoisin, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and Chinese 5-spice. When cooked low and slow, the meat becomes ultra-tender; when finished under high heat, the glaze caramelizes into that sticky, lacquered coating everyone loves.

This recipe delivers authentic Char Siu flavor using simple ingredients and a standard oven. No specialty equipment needed — just a great marinade and the right technique. Whether you’re serving this alongside fried rice, stuffing it into bao buns, slicing it over noodle bowls, or enjoying it with steamed vegetables, this Chinese BBQ Pork will become a staple in your home kitchen.

What Makes This Chinese BBQ Pork Recipe Amazing

Authentic Flavor, Simple Ingredients

This marinade tastes like classic Cantonese BBQ without requiring hard-to-find ingredients.

Restaurant-Quality Texture

Tender inside, caramelized outside, and incredibly juicy.

Flexible Cut Options

Use pork tenderloin for lean slices or pork shoulder for extra tenderness.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Char Siu keeps beautifully and is even better the next day.

Versatile for Many Dishes

Use it in rice bowls, fried rice, noodle soups, bao buns, and stir-fries.

Ingredients

For the Chinese BBQ Pork Marinade

2 lbs pork tenderloin or pork shoulder strips
3 tbsp hoisin sauce
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Chinese 5-spice powder
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp red food coloring (optional for classic look)

For Basting

2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce

Instructions

Prepare Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk hoisin, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, Chinese 5-spice, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and food coloring (optional).
Marinate Pork:
Place pork in a large bag or bowl and pour marinade over it.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat Oven:
Heat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
Roast:
Place marinated pork on the rack and roast for 20 minutes.
Baste & Continue Cooking:
Mix basting sauce (honey, soy sauce, hoisin).
Brush pork generously and roast another 10–15 minutes.
Caramelize:
Increase heat to 450°F or broil for 2–3 minutes until edges char slightly.
Rest and Slice:
Let pork rest 10 minutes, then slice thinly. Brush with extra marinade for shine.