Char Siu
Char Siu, or Chinese BBQ Pork, is a beloved Cantonese dish featuring tender pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then roasted to a glossy, caramelized finish. The marinade typically includes ingredients like hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and red fermented bean curd or food coloring for its iconic red hue. It's a staple in Cantonese cuisine, often served over rice, in buns, or as part of a larger feast.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Char Siu is a protein-rich dish, with a moderate to high fat content depending on the cut of pork used, and minimal carbohydrates. It provides key nutrients like protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc, with a typical serving of around 100-150 grams containing roughly 250-350 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Phosphorus | 200 mg |
| Zinc | 2.5 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 5.0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 cup, sliced (130 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Char Siu is a symbol of celebration and prosperity in Chinese cuisine, often featured in festivals and family gatherings. Nutritionally, its unique marinade not only enhances flavor but also contributes antioxidants and antimicrobial properties from spices like five-spice powder, which includes star anise, cloves, and Sichuan pepper.
