Honey BBQ Char Siu (Fork Roast Pork) with Barbecued Black Tea Seasonings

Ingredients:

• 6g barbecued black tea seasonings
• 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into large chunks
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening glaze)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening glaze)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pork:

• Pat Dry and Season: Pat the pork pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the pork generously with the barbecued black tea seasonings, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Make the Marinade:

• Mix Marinade Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, Chinese five-spice powder, and rice wine. Mix well to form a thick marinade.
• Marinate the Pork: Add the seasoned pork pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for more flavor.

Cook the Pork:

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Roast the Pork: Place the marinated pork pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the surface is caramelized and slightly crispy. Baste the pork with the marinade every 15 minutes to ensure a flavorful and glossy finish.

Thicken the Glaze (Optional):

• Prepare Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to form a slurry. In a small saucepan, bring any remaining marinade to a simmer. Slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Brush the thickened glaze over the roasted pork during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Serve:

• Garnish and Serve: Transfer the roasted pork to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions. Serve immediately while hot. The char siu can be enjoyed on its own, with steamed rice, or as part of a bao bun or noodle dish.

Tips for Success:

• Seasoning: The barbecued black tea seasonings add a unique, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey and hoisin sauce. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
• Marination: Marinating the pork for at least 2 hours ensures deep flavor penetration. The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, and five-spice powder creates a classic char siu flavor profile.
• Basting: Basting the pork with the marinade during roasting ensures a caramelized, glossy finish. If the marinade runs out, use the thickened glaze for the final basting.
• Garnish: Fresh cilantro or green onions add a bright, aromatic touch, balancing the richness of the pork and the sweetness of the glaze.

Enjoy Your Honey BBQ Char Siu with Barbecued Black Tea Seasonings!

• This dish combines the tender, flavorful pork with a sweet and savory glaze, enhanced by the unique aroma of barbecued black tea seasonings. It’s a perfect choice for a special dinner or a traditional Chinese feast, ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a delicious meal at home.