Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork), and where to source it
Well-raised pork shoulder has the fat marbling that keeps char siu moist through a hot roast, and real honey does the caramel work that corn syrup fakes. The key technique is basting in layers: three coats of glaze under the broiler build the sticky, blistered edge.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min plus marinating
Cook40 min
Makes6 servings
CuisineChinese
Cost$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten · soy
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6servings
Pork shoulder
Cut into long strips so more surface catches the glaze.
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
GrillInstant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
MarinateWhisk soy, half the honey, five-spice, hoisin, garlic, ginger and wine; coat the pork strips and refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
RoastRoast at 425F on a rack over water, turning once, about 25 minutes until the edges darken.
Glaze in coatsThin the remaining honey with a spoon of marinade and brush on; broil 2 to 3 minutes, then repeat twice for a blistered lacquer.
Rest and sliceRest 10 minutes so the juices settle, then slice across the grain into thin planks. Serve over rice or in noodle soup.
Can you make Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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