Oven-Baked Char Siu Pork Shoulder

Oven-Baked Char Siu Pork Shoulder

Classic DishChar Siu

Prep: 15 min • Cook: 60 min. A simplified version of classic Char Siu, using pork shoulder baked in the oven with a sweet and savory marinade. This method achieves tender, caramelized pork with minimal fuss, perfect for weeknight Cantonese meals.

Preparation time
15 min
Cooking time
1 hr
Total time
1 hr 15 min
Servings
6

Instructions

Marinating

  1. 1In a large bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. If using, add sugar.
  2. 2Add the pork shoulder cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-3 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Baking

  1. 1Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
  2. 2Arrange the marinated pork shoulder in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Discard any excess marinade.
  3. 3Bake for 45-60 minutes, flipping the pork halfway through, until the pork is cooked through, tender, and the edges are caramelized and slightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 71°C (160°F).
  4. 4For extra glaze, you can baste the pork with any accumulated juices during the last 15 minutes of baking or broil for a minute or two, watching closely to prevent burning.

Resting and Serving

  1. 1Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Char Siu rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or cubing.
  2. 2Slice the Char Siu pork shoulder against the grain and serve warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories
650 kcal
Protein
45 g
Fat
35 g
Carbs
30 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories650 kcal
Protein45 g
Fat35 g
Carbs30 g

Tips

  • For deeper flavor, marinate the pork overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
  • Keep an eye on the char siu during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent the honey from burning.
  • Serve char siu with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or in noodle dishes for a complete meal.

By Chef Michael Ilin