Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs pork loin
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
- 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1/4 tsp red food coloring (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Meat thermometer
- Grill or oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven or grill to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red food coloring (if using).
3. Place pork loin in a baking dish and pour the marinade over it, making sure it is evenly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Remove pork loin from the marinade and place it on the grill or in the oven. Cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Let the pork loin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours or overnight
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Temperature:
Oven or grill temperature: 375°F
Internal temperature of pork loin: 145°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 1070mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork loin can be substituted with pork tenderloin or chicken breast.
- Hoisin sauce can be substituted with oyster sauce or barbecue sauce.
- Honey can be substituted with brown sugar or maple syrup.
- Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Chinese five-spice powder can be substituted with cinnamon, cloves, or allspice.
Variations:
- Add sliced scallions or sesame seeds as a garnish.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles.
- Use the marinade for grilled vegetables or tofu.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to let the pork loin rest before slicing to retain its juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork loin is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- If using an oven, place the pork loin on a rack in the baking dish to allow for even cooking.
Storage instructions:
Leftover pork loin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the pork loin in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Slice the pork loin and arrange it on a platter with steamed rice and vegetables.
Garnishes:
Sliced scallions or sesame seeds.
Pairings:
Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Egg rolls
- Wonton soup
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork loin is not cooked through, return it to the oven or grill and check the temperature every 5 minutes until it reaches 145°F.
- If the pork loin is dry, try marinating it for a longer period of time or basting it with the marinade while cooking.
Food safety advice:
- Always wash your hands and utensils before handling raw meat.
- Cook pork to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Food history:
Cha siu pork is a popular Cantonese dish that originated in China. It is typically made with pork belly or pork shoulder, but this recipe uses pork loin for a leaner option.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, savory, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
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Region: Chinese