This Easy Chinese BBQ Pork is tender, sweet, and juicy—perfect for any meal! Made with simple ingredients like pork, soy sauce, and honey, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
I love how easy it is to whip this up at home. Plus, the aroma while it cooks makes my kitchen smell like a fancy restaurant! You’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: I recommend using pork shoulder for its tenderness and flavor. Pork loin is a leaner option, but you’ll sacrifice some juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs instead!
Hoisin Sauce: This is key for that sweet, tangy flavor. If you’re out, try using a mix of soy sauce and molasses in equal parts as a substitute.
Five-Spice Powder: This gives a classic Chinese flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of cinnamon and ground ginger can work in a pinch, though it won’t be exactly the same.
Shaoxing Wine: This adds depth to the dish. If you don’t have it, dry sherry or even white grape juice can be used as a substitute, but avoid cooking wine which often contains salt.
Red Food Coloring: Optional for a vibrant color, but you can skip it if you prefer a more natural look. The flavor won’t be affected!
How Do I Make Sure My Pork is Juicy and Flavorful?
For juicy pork, marinating is crucial! Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your marinade well to ensure all ingredients blend together.
- Let the pork marinate for at least 2 hours—overnight is best for maximum flavor.
- When placing the pork in the oven, spread it out on a wire rack. This allows heat to circulate around the meat, helping it cook evenly.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer—145°F (63°C) is perfect. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep the juices in.
Easy Chinese BBQ Pork Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder or pork loin, sliced into 1/2-inch thick strips
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Chinese Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional, for authentic color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Garnishing:
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- Steamed white rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. If you can let the pork marinate overnight, do it! It will make the flavors even better. Overall, plan for about 2 hours if including marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine (if using), oyster sauce, five-spice powder, red food coloring (if using), minced garlic, grated ginger, sugar, and vegetable oil. Stir well until everything is combined perfectly to create a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight so the flavors can soak in.
3. Prepare for Cooking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with foil for easy clean-up and put a wire rack on top to allow air circulation around the pork.
4. Roast the Pork:
Take the marinated pork pieces and arrange them in a single layer on the wire rack, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the tray in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Flip the pork halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly.
5. Finish Under the Broiler:
If you want an extra sticky and charred finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the pork out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it if desired. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions and serve it hot with steamed white rice. Enjoy your homemade Chinese BBQ Pork!
With these easy steps, you’ll create a delicious dish that everyone will love, just like the one in the photo!
FAQ for Easy Chinese BBQ Pork Recipe
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder and pork loin are great choices, you can also use chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed—chicken typically cooks faster than pork.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep them moist.
Can I Freeze This BBQ Pork?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork! Just be sure to seal it well in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. Once cooked, the leftovers can also be frozen for about a month if properly stored!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This BBQ pork is delicious with steamed white rice, but you can also serve it with fried rice, noodles, or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. For a lower-carb option, consider serving it with cauliflower rice or a simple salad.
