Go Back
–+ servings
Air Fryer Char Siu Pork with a glossy glaze, served on a plate.

Air Fryer Char Siu Pork

A delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic Chinese dish Char Siu Pork made in the air fryer for a healthier option with a perfect caramelized exterior.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 2 lbs pork shoulder (cut into 2” (5 cm) thick strips, or pork butt)
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons sugar Adjust for sweetness preference
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 clove garlic (grated, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1/4 teaspoon five spice powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 10 to 20 drops red food coloring (Optional) Does not affect flavor, only appearance
  • 3 tablespoons maltose (or honey) Can use honey as a substitute

Method
 

Marinating
  1. In a bowl, mix together all the ingredients except the pork. If using red food coloring, add it to the marinade.
  2. Place the pork strips into a large resealable bag or a container. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it is well coated.
  3. Seal the bag or cover the container and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Prepare the Glaze
  1. After marinating, take the pork out and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. Drain the excess marinade but keep it for later.
Air Frying
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the pork strips in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded.
  3. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the pork is caramelized and cooked through.
  4. Brush the reserved marinade over the pork during the last few minutes for extra flavor.
Serving
  1. Once done, let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve it right away or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15g

Notes

Ensure that the pork is marinated long enough for the flavors to soak in. If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the sugar or maltose to your liking. Always preheat the air fryer for best results. Flip the pork halfway through cooking for even cooking and browning.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!