Air Fryer Char Siu Pork: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Perfectly Glazed BBQ Pork

Air Fryer Char Siu Pork is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of traditional Chinese barbecue right into your kitchen with minimal fuss. As someone who has always been captivated by the vibrant culinary traditions of Asia, I find that this recipe not only satisfies my cravings but also pays homage to the cultural significance of Char Siu, which has been enjoyed for centuries. The sweet and savory marinade, combined with the tender, juicy pork, creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

What I love most about Air Fryer Char Siu Pork is its incredible taste and texture. The air fryer ensures that the pork is perfectly cooked, with a slightly crispy exterior and a succulent interior, all while being a healthier option compared to traditional methods. Plus, the convenience of using an air fryer means I can whip up this delicious dish in no time, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we explore this fantastic recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into 1-inch thick strips
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring (optional, for color)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating)

Preparing the Marinade

To start, I like to prepare the marinade that will give the pork its signature flavor. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, Chinese rice wine, five-spice powder, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red food coloring (if using). Whisk everything together until well blended.
2. Once the marinade is ready, place the pork strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.

Preparing the Pork

After the pork has marinated, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here’s what I do:

1. Remove the pork from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. I like to reserve the marinade for basting later, so I set it aside in a small saucepan.
2. Next, I sprinkle the cornstarch over the pork strips, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step helps to create a nice crust when air frying.

Cooking Process

Now comes the exciting part—cooking the pork in the air fryer! Here’s how I do it:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the pork cooks evenly and gets that lovely charred exterior.
2. Once preheated, arrange the pork strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
3. Air fry the pork for 15 minutes. After 7-8 minutes, I like to flip the pork strips to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
4. While the pork is cooking, I bring the reserved marinade to a boil in the saucepan. This step is crucial as it kills any bacteria from the raw pork. Once it reaches a boil, I reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. After 15 minutes, I check the pork for doneness. It should be nicely browned and have an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). If it needs more time, I continue to air fry in 2-3 minute increments until done.

Basting the Pork

To enhance the flavor and give the pork a beautiful glaze, I like to baste it with the reserved marinade:

1. Once the pork is cooked, I carefully remove it from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board.
2. Using a brush or spoon, I generously baste the pork with the simmered marinade. This adds an extra layer of flavor and gives it a glossy finish.
3. For an even more caramelized effect, I return the basted pork to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This step is optional but highly recommended for that authentic char siu taste.

Assembling and Serving

Now that the pork is perfectly cooked and glazed, it’s time to serve it up:

1. Once the final cooking time is up, I remove the pork from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the pork more tender.
2. After resting, I slice the pork into thin pieces, about 1

Conclusion:

In summary, this Air Fryer Char Siu Pork recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking game. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender, juicy texture of the pork, makes it a standout dish that will impress your family and friends. Plus, the air fryer makes it incredibly easy and quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing the Char Siu Pork with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. You can also slice it thinly and use it as a filling for bao buns or in a rice noodle salad for a delightful twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different marinades or adding a touch of spice to the glaze for a unique flavor profile. I encourage you to give this Air Fryer Char Siu Pork recipe a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any variations you might have tried. Cooking is all about creativity and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on it. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see your delicious results!

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