Get ready to transform your kitchen into a flavor paradise with this mouthwatering Chinese Roast Pork recipe that's so tender, it practically melts in your mouth! Imagine pulling a perfectly seasoned, succulent pork shoulder out of the oven, filled with rich five-spice aromatics and a glossy, caramelized exterior that promises an explosion of authentic Chinese flavors. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a comfort food enthusiast seeking a new culinary adventure, this recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Remove pork shoulder from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, sugar, and minced garlic to create a marinade. Whisk ingredients until sugar dissolves completely.
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning.
- Place pork in a large resealable plastic bag or non-reactive container, and pour marinade over the meat. Ensure the pork is completely coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove pork from marinade, reserving the liquid for basting.
- Place pork in a roasting pan, fat side up. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Roast for approximately 1 hour, basting with reserved marinade every 20 minutes to keep the meat moist and enhance flavor.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Pork is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium, with a slight pink center.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice against the grain into thin pieces and garnish with freshly chopped green onions.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your preferred side dishes.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork shoulder come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Marination Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. Letting the pork sit in the marinade overnight allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Moisture Management: Pat the pork dry before marinating to help achieve a beautiful, crispy exterior.
- Basting Brilliance: Regular basting during roasting keeps the meat incredibly juicy and enhances the flavor profile.
- Rest and Relax: Allow the roast to rest after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each slice is perfectly moist.
- Slice Smartly: Always slice against the grain to maximize tenderness and create the most appealing presentation.
- Thermometer Trust: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 75mg
