Succulent Air Fryer Char Siu: The Ultimate Chinese BBQ Pork Recipe

Last Updated: December 18, 2024By Tags: , , , ,



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Air Fried Char Siu: A Modern Take on the Classic Chinese BBQ Pork

Char Siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is an iconic dish that has found its way into the hearts—and stomachs—of food lovers across the globe. With its succulent, sweet, and smoky flavours, this traditional Cantonese preparation has graced many a dining table. Traditionally, Char Siu is roasted in a hot oven or over an open flame, which can be time-consuming and require a certain level of culinary expertise. However, with the advent of air fryer technology, cooking up this beloved dish has become remarkably simpler, while still retaining the depth of flavour that defines it.

A Brief History of Char Siu

The term "Char Siu" translates to "fork roasted," referring to the method of cooking the marinated pork on skewers over a fire. Originating from Cantonese cuisine, the dish can be traced back hundreds of years, with its unique flavour stemming from a delightful marinade that often includes soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and red food colouring.

Char Siu is versatile—vegetarians and veggies can find versions made from mushrooms or tofu—but the traditional preparation typically uses pork shoulder or belly for its rich flavour and tender texture. The dish is incredibly popular in Chinese restaurants, often served with rice or noodles or as part of a dim sum spread.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

An air fryer offers a convenient and healthier alternative to deep frying and cooking methods that require excessive oils. The mechanism of circulating hot air creates a crispy outer layer while retaining moisture inside, making it a perfect appliance for recreating the tender, caramelised finish of traditional Char Siu. Plus, air frying significantly reduces cooking time and allows for easier clean-up.

Ingredients for Air Fried Char Siu

To embark on your culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

  • 600g of pork shoulder or belly
  • 4 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
  • 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of honey
  • 1 tablespoon of Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon of red food colouring (optional, for aesthetic appeal)
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Start by trimming excess fat from the pork, ensuring you leave enough to maintain tenderness. Cut the pork into long strips—around 2-3 inches wide. The size will allow for even cooking while enhancing the caramelisation of the marinade.

Step 2: Marinate

In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Place the pork strips in the marinade, ensuring that every bit of meat is well-coated. Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though ideally overnight, to develop the flavours.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential in achieving that perfect balance between crispiness and juiciness.

Step 4: Air Frying

Place the marinated pork strips in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have space for airflow. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking for even browning. You may want to baste with leftover marinade during the cooking process for an extra layer of flavour.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, allow the Char Siu to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or in a bao bun, and accompany with sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours.

Conclusion

Air Fried Char Siu is a delightful way to experience one of China’s most revered dishes in an accessible and contemporary format. With the air fryer streamlining both the cooking process and clean-up, home cooks of all levels can indulge in this sweet, smoky delight with relative ease. Whether served as part of a festive meal or enjoyed as a tasty snack, this air-fried version of Char Siu promises to satisfy cravings and elevate any dining experience. So fire up that air fryer and let the delightful aroma of homemade BBQ pork fill your kitchen!


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