# DIY Air Fryer Char Siu: A Tasty Spin on Chinese Barbecue
The only thing that surpasses a simple dish of rice and char siu is your very own DIY air fryer char siu. This recipe is not only exceptionally delicious but also remarkably easy to prepare.
## The History of Char Siu
Chinese barbecue, especially char siu, boasts a rich heritage dating back to ancient eras. Traditionally, villages utilized a central oven for slow-roasting meats, overseen by a BBQ expert. The sight of whole pork carcasses and ducks hanging in the window was typical, with char siu being a beloved choice due to its sweet, smoky taste and tender consistency.
## What is Char Siu?
Char siu is a variety of Chinese barbecue pork recognized for its subtly sweet and smoky essence. It is frequently featured in fried rice but is ideally savored in thick slices atop plain rice accompanied by stir-fried vegetables.
## How to Create Air Fryer Char Siu
Crafting char siu at home is uncomplicated. Here’s a simple walkthrough for making it in an air fryer:
1. **Cube the Pork**: Chop the pork into cubes to enhance the surface area for improved charring and flavor absorption.
2. **Prepare the Marinade**: Combine just five key ingredients, with a few optional enhancements for added taste.
3. **Marinate**: Let the pork marinate overnight for optimal results, although 30 minutes will work in a pinch.
4. **Air Fry**: Cook the marinated pork in the air fryer at 375ºF for around 8 minutes.
5. **Savor**: Serve the char siu over fluffy white rice with fresh vegetables or mix it into other dishes.
## Is Air Fryer Char Siu Superior to Baked?
This air fryer technique is revolutionary compared to classic oven baking. The air fryer warms up quickly, circulates air for an even char, and cooks the meat in a fraction of the time. The recipe can be easily modified by substituting a well-marbled pork chop for the usual pork shoulder, resulting in juicy and flavorful char siu.
## How to Use Char Siu
Char siu can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some suggestions:
– Serve it over rice paired with stir-fried vegetables.
– Utilize it as a filling for bao buns or sandwiches.
– Mix it into fried rice or noodle preparations.
### Air Fryer Char Siu Recipe
**Servings**: 1
**Prep Time**: 2 minutes
**Cook Time**: 8 minutes
**Total Time**: 10 minutes
#### Ingredients:
– 1 lb thick cut pork chop
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, smashed
– 1 inch ginger, sliced
– 2 tsp shaoxing wine (optional)
– 1/2 tsp Chinese five spice powder (optional)
– 1/4 tsp ground white pepper (optional)
#### Instructions:
1. Cube the pork to prepare it.
2. Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
3. Let the pork marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, ideally overnight.
4. Preheat the air fryer and cook the pork at 375ºF for 8 minutes.
5. Enjoy your meal!
### Notes
– For well-cooked pork, extend the cooking duration to 10 minutes.
– Store any remaining marinade in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, or boil it for 1-2 minutes to use as a sauce or glaze.
DIY air fryer char siu is a delightful recipe that brings the tastes of Chinese barbecue right into your kitchen, making it a perfect complement to any meal.