Low Sodium Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)

Indulge in the rich, savory-sweet flavors of Low Sodium Char Siu, a healthier twist on the classic Chinese BBQ Pork. This recipe reimagines the traditional marinade by incorporating low sodium alternatives like hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, and soy sauce, making it perfect for those mindful of their salt intake. A harmonious blend of red bean curd, honey, garlic, and Chinese five-spice infuses the tender pork shoulder with authentic, mouthwatering depth. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a luxurious overnight marination, this dish delivers a sticky, caramelized glaze achieved through perfect oven roasting. Serve this guilt-free version of char siu with steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a Chinese-inspired feast that satisfies without compromise. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this low sodium delight is proof that flavor and health can coexist!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Pork shoulder
• 3 tablespoons Hoisin sauce, low sodium
• 2 tablespoons Oyster sauce, low sodium
• 1 tablespoon Red bean curd
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Honey
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• 2 tablespoons Light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Soy sauce, low sodium
• 1 teaspoon Sesame oil

Directions

Step 1

Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into strips approximately 2 inches wide and 6 inches long for even cooking and marinating.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine hoisin sauce, low sodium oyster sauce, red bean curd, Chinese five-spice powder, minced garlic, honey, Shaoxing wine, light brown sugar, low sodium soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Step 3

Add the pork strips into 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, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Step 4

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This will allow the pork to cook evenly and catch any drippings.

Step 5

Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place the strips on the wire rack. Reserve the leftover marinade.

Step 6

Bake the pork for about 30 minutes, turning the strips over halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 7

Meanwhile, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will be used to glaze the pork.

Step 8

After 30 minutes of baking, brush the thickened marinade over the pork strips and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and a deep, sticky glaze forms.

Step 9

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

Step 10

Serve char siu pork slices with steamed rice and vegetables, if desired. Enjoy your delicious, low sodium char siu!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1134.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2433.0

Total Fat 122.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 39.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.8g
Cholesterol 800.5mg	0%
Sodium 2483.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 89.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 0.9g	0%
Total Sugars 77.4g
Protein 216.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 279.5mg	0%
Iron 10.6mg	0%
Potassium 3484.3mg	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: 47.3%

Protein: 37.3%

Carbs: 15.5%