Low Carb Cha Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)

Satisfy your cravings for succulent, flavorful barbecue pork without breaking your low-carb lifestyle with this Low Carb Cha Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork). This keto-friendly twist on the classic Cantonese dish features tender pork tenderloin marinated in a rich blend of soy sauce, sugar-free hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and aromatic spices like Chinese five-spice and garlic powder. The addition of a natural low-carb sweetener ensures an authentic sweet and savory glaze while keeping the carbs in check. Baked to perfection and caramelized with a mouthwatering glaze, this dish is perfect as a main course or a protein-packed appetizer. Ready in under an hour—with minimal prep—this recipe delivers all of the bold, smoky flavors of traditional Cha Siu while staying perfectly aligned with your low-carb or keto goals. Serve it with a refreshing side of sautéed bok choy or cauliflower rice for a complete and satisfying meal!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Pork tenderloin
• 0.25 cup Soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Hoisin sauce (low-carb, sugar-free)
• 2 tablespoons Oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons Xylitol or erythritol sweetener
• 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Red food coloring (optional)
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Ginger, freshly grated

Directions

Step 1

Cut the pork tenderloin into long strips, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, xylitol or erythritol sweetener, sesame oil, Chinese five-spice powder, garlic powder, and optionally, red food coloring. Mix well until the sweetener is fully dissolved.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger to the marinade mixture and stir to incorporate.

Step 4

Place the pork strips into a resealable bag or a glass container, and pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight to allow flavors to penetrate.

Step 5

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the foil-lined baking sheet.

Step 6

Remove the pork from the marinade and place on the wire rack. Reserve the marinade left behind in the dish or bag.

Step 7

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 8

Meanwhile, transfer the reserved marinade to a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it cook for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly for basting.

Step 9

After the initial 25 minutes of baking, remove the pork from the oven and brush the thickened marinade over each piece. Turn the pieces over and baste the other side.

Step 10

Return the pork to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pork is caramelized and cooked through with an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).

Step 11

Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 12

Slice the pork thinly and serve it warm. Enjoy your low-carb Cha Siu as a main dish or appetizer, accompanied by your favorite low-carb sides.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1098.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1527.2

Total Fat 47.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 10.4g
Cholesterol 616.9mg	0%
Sodium 6658.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 43.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 1.9g	0%
Total Sugars 0.6g
Protein 232.9g	0%

Vitamin D 72.6IU	0%
Calcium 128.0mg	0%
Iron 11.8mg	0%
Potassium 4538.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 27.8%

Protein: 60.9%

Carbs: 11.4%