Low Carb Char Siew (Chinese Barbecue Pork)

Experience the irresistible flavors of Low Carb Char Siew, a healthier twist on the iconic Chinese barbecue pork that doesn’t skimp on taste. Perfectly caramelized and slightly charred edges meet juicy, tender pork strips marinated in a sugar-free blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and aromatic spices. With a quick 15-minute prep and an easy oven-baked cooking method, this keto-friendly recipe delivers bold, authentic flavors while keeping the carbs in check. Whether served as a main dish or a show-stopping appetizer, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy this classic Cantonese favorite. Ideal for meal prep or sharing at your next gathering, this low-carb char siu is sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Pork shoulder or pork belly
• 1.5 tablespoons Soy sauce (low-sodium)
• 1 tablespoon Hoison sauce (sugar-free)
• 2 tablespoons Sugar-free ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Char siu seasoning powder (check for low-carb option)
• 3 cloves Minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Sugar substitute (such as erythritol or monk fruit)
• 1 drop Red food coloring (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Water

Directions

Step 1

Cut the pork shoulder or belly into long strips roughly 2 inches wide.

Step 2

In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar-free hoisin sauce, sugar-free ketchup, char siu seasoning powder, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar substitute, and water.

Step 3

Add a drop of red food coloring to the marinade if desired for authentic appearance.

Step 4

Toss the pork strips in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.

Step 6

Arrange the marinated pork strips on the wire rack, reserving the marinade.

Step 7

Bake the pork in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 8

While baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened to use as glaze.

Step 9

After 25 minutes, remove the pork from the oven and brush with the thickened glaze.

Step 10

Return the pork to the oven and increase temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the edges are caramelized and slightly charred.

Step 11

Remove the pork from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 12

Serve the low-carb Char Siew as a main dish or appetizer. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1060.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2469.0

Total Fat 196.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 65.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.8g
Cholesterol 635.0mg	0%
Sodium 3641.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 37.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 0.6g	0%
Total Sugars 2.4g
Protein 166.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 110.1mg	0%
Iron 10.7mg	0%
Potassium 2733.9mg	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: 68.4%

Protein: 25.8%

Carbs: 5.9%