1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and a few drops of red food coloring (if using). Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Marinate the Pork:
- Place the pork strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Prepare for Cooking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup will help the pork cook evenly and get a nice char.
- Remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
4. Cook the Char Siu:
- Place the marinated pork strips on the wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- While the pork is cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan, and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a glaze.
- After 25 minutes, remove the pork from the oven and brush it with the glaze. Turn the pieces over and glaze the other side.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (205°C). Return the pork to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the edges start to caramelize and the pork is cooked through.
5. Serve:
- Let the Char Siu rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. Serve warm with rice, vegetables, or your favorite sides.
Enjoy the rich flavors of this Easy Char Siu, a dish that’s sure to impress with its beautiful blend of sweetness, spice, and savory notes. This recipe makes it simple to bring a taste of Chinese BBQ to your kitchen without needing a grill or special equipment.