Sugar-Free Cha Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)

Delight in the irresistible flavors of Sugar-Free Cha Siu, a healthier take on the Chinese BBQ pork classic. This recipe combines the bold umami of tamari or soy sauce, the warming spice of Chinese five-spice powder, and the aromatic blend of fresh ginger and garlic to craft a marinade that’s both rich and balanced. A touch of honey adds natural sweetness, while sesame oil and rice vinegar lend depth and brightness. Marinated to perfection and roasted until tender with a glossy, caramelized finish, this dish offers all the iconic flavors of traditional Cha Siu but without refined sugar. Perfect for meal prep, pairing with steamed rice, or serving as a centerpiece, this easy oven-roasted recipe will wow your taste buds without compromising your health goals.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Pork shoulder or pork loin
• 0.25 cup Tamari or soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Honey
• 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
• 1 drop Red food coloring (optional)
• 0.25 cup Water

Directions

Step 1

In a bowl, combine the tamari or soy sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 2

Optional: Add a drop of red food coloring for an authentic red hue of traditional Cha Siu.

Step 3

Place the pork shoulder or pork loin into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring all sides are well coated.

Step 4

Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 5

When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 6

Remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.

Step 7

Place the pork on a rack over a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

Step 8

Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 9

While the pork is roasting, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan, add the water, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken it slightly.

Step 10

After 25 minutes, remove the pork from the oven and baste it with the thickened marinade.

Step 11

Return the pork to the oven and continue roasting for another 15 to 20 minutes, basting once more halfway through, until the pork is cooked through and has a nice glaze.

Step 12

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

Step 13

Slice the pork into thin pieces and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(901.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2006.0

Total Fat 150.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 49.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.8g
Cholesterol 476.3mg	0%
Sodium 3772.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 42.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 0.9g	0%
Total Sugars 34.6g
Protein 130.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 97.3mg	0%
Iron 9.0mg	0%
Potassium 2235.5mg	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: 66.3%

Protein: 25.5%

Carbs: 8.3%