There’s nothing quite like the aroma of marinated pork sizzling away in the oven, filling your home with scents that transport you straight to a bustling Chinese eatery. I discovered the joy of making Chinese BBQ pork after a particularly hectic week, when I craved comfort food without the hassle of dining out. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms a simple pork tenderloin into a melty, flavor-packed dish reminiscent of your favorite takeout.
As the blend of garlic, hoisin sauce, and five spice dances together, you’ll find it hard to resist sneaking a taste of the marinade before it graces your meat. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you can impress family and friends—or simply satisfy your craving for something savory and satisfying. The best part? Any leftovers can easily be reincarnated as the star ingredient in fried rice or layered into ramen for a cozy meal later. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this delightful homemade Chinese BBQ pork that’s not only gluten-free but packed with flavor!
Why is Chinese BBQ Pork a must-try?
Savory, Sweet Flavors: Revel in the irresistible balance of sweet and savory notes that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Easy Prep: Just a simple marinade and a few hours in the fridge cater to even the busiest cooks, making it a perfect weeknight solution.
Versatile Leftovers: Transform leftover pork into exciting dishes like fried rice or ramen, giving you multiple meals in one preparation.
Customizable Spice: Adjust the heat level easily with Sriracha, ensuring it caters to all guests and family members.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari for a gluten-free version, making it accessible for everyone at your table!
Indulge in this delightful home-cooked experience and prepare to impress with your own take on an Asian favorite!
Chinese BBQ Pork Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make your delicious Chinese BBQ pork at home!
For the Marinade
- Pork Tenderloin – The star of the dish; choose a small, tender cut to guarantee succulence.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness; feel free to substitute with honey or agave if you prefer.
- Red Food Coloring – Optional enhancer for that classic look; skip it for a more natural appearance.
- Garlic (3 cloves, chopped) – Brings aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor impact.
- Gluten-Free Hoisin Sauce (¼ cup) – Infuses sweetness and complexity; use regular hoisin if gluten isn’t a concern.
- Honey (¼ cup) – Moisturizes and sweetens the marinade; maple syrup can work well as an alternative.
- Sriracha (1 T) – Adds a spicy kick; adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference.
- Soy Sauce or Gluten-Free Tamari (3 T) – Enhances the umami experience; opt for tamari if you need a gluten-free choice.
- Chinese Five Spice (1 ½ t) – Offers a unique aromatic flavor; a little goes a long way to complement the pork.
- Vegetable Oil (2 T) – Facilitates marination and cooking; can replace with canola or sesame oil if desired.
For Serving
- Hot Mustard – Provides a sharp, zesty kick when served alongside the pork.
- Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
Get ready to create a homemade Chinese BBQ Pork that’s not only easy to make but also richly flavorful, offering a comforting meal that’s sure to please!
How to Make Chinese BBQ Pork
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, red food coloring (if using), minced garlic, hoisin sauce, honey, sriracha, soy sauce, and Chinese five spice to create a flavorful marinade.
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Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin into a resealable plastic bag or dish and pour the marinade over the meat. Make sure it’s fully coated for the best flavor infusion.
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Chill Overnight: Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to marinate. This step ensures the pork absorbs all those delicious flavors.
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Preheat Oven: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pork.
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Prepare for Baking: Remove the pork from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Be sure to reserve the marinade for basting later!
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Bake the Pork: Bake the pork for approximately 30 minutes, basting it with the reserved marinade halfway through the cooking process until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Rest Before Serving: After baking, let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, and don’t forget to garnish with hot mustard and sesame seeds for an extra kick!
Optional: Drizzle with additional soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese BBQ Pork preparations are perfect for home cooks looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the pork tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance to ensure deep flavor penetration. Simply mix the marinade ingredients (brown sugar, hoisin, honey, etc.) and coat the pork in a resealable bag or dish before refrigerating. If you’re planning ahead for a meal, feel free to prep additional batches of the marinade to store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy your Chinese BBQ pork, just bake as directed and watch it transform into a delicious dish that will impress your family and friends—just as flavorful and juicy as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese BBQ Pork
Fridge: Store any leftover Chinese BBQ pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the pork in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To thaw, place the frozen pork in the fridge overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave for faster results.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for optimal flavor and moisture.
What to Serve with Chinese BBQ Pork?
Elevate your homemade feast with mouthwatering sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of your Chinese BBQ pork.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it absorbs the savory juices of the pork, offering a delightful balance of textures.
- Garlic Bok Choy: Crisp and tender, this vibrant vegetable dish adds freshness and a slight crunch that contrasts the pork’s tenderness.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing counterpart, the coolness of cucumbers and a tangy dressing brighten each bite, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw provide a satisfying contrast, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Wontons or Egg Rolls: These crispy bites serve as a fun appetizer, adding another layer of texture and flavor that enhances your main dish.
- Spicy Fried Noodles: Quick and full of flavor, they perfectly soak up the sauces and pair beautifully with the BBQ pork, creating a hearty meal.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A drizzle of this tangy sauce brings an extra kick of flavor that pairs harmoniously with the sweetness of the pork.
- Chilled Green Tea: The soothing properties of green tea cleanse the palate, making it a perfect drink to enjoy alongside your dinner.
- Mango Sticky Rice: As a dessert option, this sweet and creamy dish balances the savory pork, leaving a sweet finish to your meal.
Chinese BBQ Pork Variations
Get ready to put your personal twist on this recipe and delight your taste buds with creative new flavors!
- Spicy Twist: Add more Sriracha for an extra kick that’ll make you crave a glass of water nearby!
- Sweet Swap: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a unique sweetness that complements the savory.
- Hoisin Alternative: Use a homemade hoisin sauce made with soy sauce, peanut butter, and honey if you want to craft your own blend.
- Texture Change: Incorporate grated ginger for a fresh taste and gentle crunch that elevates the dish.
- Vegetable Infusion: Toss in diced bell peppers or carrots with the pork in the oven for added wholesome goodness.
- Herbal Upgrade: Enhance the marinade with fresh chopped cilantro and green onions to brighten the overall flavor profile.
- Citrus Zest: Mix in some orange or lime zest to the marinade for a refreshing citrusy note that dances on your palate.
- Rice Swap: Instead of regular rice, serve your BBQ pork over cauliflower rice for a lighter, gluten-free alternative that’s just as delicious!
Let your imagination run wild and make this dish your own, ensuring each bite is as delightful as the last!
Tips for the Best Chinese BBQ Pork
- Choose the Right Cut: Use pork tenderloin for optimal tenderness. Avoid pork loin, as it can dry out during cooking.
- Marinate Longer: For the best flavor penetration, marinate overnight or for at least 24 hours. Double the marinade for easy leftovers.
- Proper Basting: Reserve some marinade for basting halfway through baking to keep the pork moist and flavorful while achieving that delicious glaze.
- Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe, juicy results.
- Adjust Spice Wisely: Modify the amount of Sriracha and Chinese five spice based on your heat preference, but remember that a little five spice goes a long way!
Chinese BBQ Pork Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pork for this recipe?
Absolutely! For Chinese BBQ pork, using pork tenderloin is crucial. It’s the most tender cut, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result. Avoid pork loin as it tends to dry out during cooking. Look for pork tenderloin that is firm to the touch with a pinkish-red hue—this indicates freshness.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very good question! After cooking, you can store any leftover Chinese BBQ pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy and delicious.
Can I freeze Chinese BBQ pork, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your Chinese BBQ pork! To do this, place the cooled, sliced pork in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I properly thaw and reheat frozen Chinese BBQ pork?
To thaw frozen Chinese BBQ pork, you have a couple of options. The best method is to place it in the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to thaw slowly. For a quicker option, you can use the defrost function on your microwave. When it’s time to reheat, warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to maintain its juicy goodness.
Is there a gluten-free way to make this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and ensuring your hoisin sauce is gluten-free as well. Always check labels to be safe, and you can fully enjoy this delightful dish without any gluten concerns!
What if I don’t have certain ingredients, like gluten-free hoisin or five spice?
No worries! If you don’t have gluten-free hoisin sauce, you can substitute it with a similar sweet and savory sauce or create a homemade blend using miso and sweetener. As for Chinese five spice, you can replace it with a pinch of cinnamon and star anise as a makeshift spice combination, but remember, the flavor will differ slightly!
Irresistible Chinese BBQ Pork: Easy At-Home Recipe Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, red food coloring (if using), minced garlic, hoisin sauce, honey, sriracha, soy sauce, and Chinese five spice to create a flavorful marinade.
- Place the pork tenderloin into a resealable plastic bag or dish and pour the marinade over the meat. Make sure it's fully coated for the best flavor infusion.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to marinate.
- When you're ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the pork from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, reserving the marinade for basting.
- Bake the pork for approximately 30 minutes, basting it with the reserved marinade halfway through.
- After baking, let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, garnished with hot mustard and sesame seeds.