Chinese-style char siu
Chinese-style char siu, or barbecued pork, is a Cantonese dish featuring marinated pork (often shoulder or belly) roasted until tender with a signature sweet, sticky, and slightly charred exterior. The marinade typically includes ingredients like hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and sometimes fermented red bean curd or food coloring for its iconic red hue. It's a staple in Cantonese cuisine, commonly found in BBQ shops, dim sum restaurants, and as a filling in dishes like bao buns.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Char siu is high in protein from the pork but also contains significant fat, especially if using pork belly, and moderate carbohydrates from the sugary marinade and glaze. A typical 3-ounce (85g) serving provides around 200-300 calories, along with B vitamins, iron, and zinc, though it can be high in sodium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 385 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 1.8 mg |
| Zinc | 4.2 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 8.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.9 µg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Selenium | 35 µg |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
Per 1 serving (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, char siu is a symbol of celebration and abundance in Chinese cuisine, often served during festivals and family gatherings. Nutritionally, the use of five-spice powder not only adds flavor but also contains antioxidants, while the roasting method helps render some fat, though the sweet glaze contributes to its calorie density.
