Arteflame Grilled Cantonese Char Siu Recipe

Introduction

Char Siu, or Cantonese barbecue pork, is a sweet, savory, and smoky dish that’s elevated when cooked on the Arteflame grill. The grill’s high heat caramelizes the marinade, creating a charred glaze that’s irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into long strips (about 2 inches wide)

For the Marinade:

• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp five-spice powder
• 2 tsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• A few drops of red food coloring (optional, for traditional color)

For the Glaze:

• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Pork

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, five-spice powder, ginger, garlic, and red food coloring (if using).
2. Add the pork strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for 20 minutes.
2. Arrange the pork on the cooler outer zone of the flat cooktop to cook slowly and evenly.

Step 3: Grill the Pork

1. Cook the pork strips on the cooler zone of the grill for 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are nearly cooked through.
2. Move the pork to the medium-heat zone for 5-10 minutes to caramelize the marinade and develop a slight char.
3. Brush the pork with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking, flipping to coat both sides.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

1. Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
2. Slice the Char Siu into thin pieces and transfer to a serving platter.

Tips for Perfect Char Siu

1. Choose the Right Cut: Use pork shoulder or pork belly for a balance of fat and tenderness.
2. Marinate Overnight: Allowing the pork to marinate overnight enhances the flavor.
3. Slow Cook First: Start on a cooler zone to cook the pork evenly before caramelizing.
4. Baste Often: Brush with the glaze frequently for a glossy, flavorful coating.

Variations

1. Chicken Char Siu: Use boneless chicken thighs instead of pork.
2. Spicy Char Siu: Add chili paste or crushed red pepper to the marinade for a kick.
3. Vegetarian Char Siu: Marinate tofu or tempeh in the same sauce.
4. Extra Sweet: Add an extra tablespoon of honey to the glaze for a sweeter profile.
5. Smokier Flavor: Use applewood or cherry wood chips for added smokiness.

Pairings

• Sides: Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or grilled bok choy.
• Drinks: Pair with jasmine tea, a cold beer, or a fruity white wine.
• Sauces: Offer extra marinade as a dipping sauce or serve with plum sauce.

Conclusion

Arteflame Grilled Cantonese Char Siu is a flavorful, caramelized masterpiece with smoky notes that only a grill can provide. This dish is perfect as a centerpiece for dinner or as part of a larger Cantonese meal.