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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.