Air Fryer Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 3 tbsp honey ((or melted maltose))
• 2 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry Marsala / Sherry)
• 2 cloves garlic (grated)
• 1/2 tsp Chinese five-spice
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1/4 tsp chicken powder ((optional))
• Few drops red food coloring ((optional))
• 2 lbs (900g) pork belly slices
• 2 tsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Marinate the Pork ---

2. 2

   Whisk the Char Siu sauce ingredients to dissolve the sugar. Stir in the food coloring, if using.

3. 3

   Add the pork belly slices, coating them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight for the deepest flavor.

4. 4

   --- Air Fry ---

5. 5

   Remove the pork from the fridge 20 minutes before cooking. Scrape the excess marinade off the pork slices and transfer it into a small saucepan. Add the cornstarch, stir to dissolve and simmer over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes or until thick and glossy.

6. 6

   Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the pork slices in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer). Air fry for 15 minutes, flipping the slices over and basting with the sauce halfway through.

7. 7

   Flip over and brush with the glaze. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for another 5 – 8 minutes, flipping and glazing again, until the edges are slightly charred and the internal temperature is 205°F (96°C).

8. 8

   --- Rest and Slice ---

9. 9

   Transfer the Char Siu to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 5 minutes to lock in the juices.

10. 10

    Slice into bite-sized strips, drizzle with any remaining warm glaze and serve immediately.