Chinese Roast Pork Loin Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Way to Enjoy Pork

Are you in the mood for a flavourful and juicy roast pork loin? Look no further than this Chinese roast pork loin recipe. This recipe will guide you through the essential ingredients and marinade mastery to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours that will satisfy your taste buds.

To start, you will need a few key ingredients such as pork loin, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder. Don't worry if you don't have all the ingredients on hand, as we will also suggest some substitutes that you can use. The marinade is the secret to achieving the perfect flavour, and we will guide you through the process of making it from scratch. Once the marinade is ready, we will show you how to roast the pork loin to perfection, so you can enjoy a juicy and tender roast pork.

If you want to take this recipe to the next level, we suggest adding seafood to the recipe. Seafood such as prawns or scallops can add a unique flavour to the dish. You can use prawns or scallops as a topping or side dish to the pork loin. The combination of the juicy pork and the flavourful seafood will elevate this dish to a whole new level.

Key Takeaways

• This Chinese roast pork loin recipe is easy to follow and requires essential ingredients such as pork loin, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder.
• The marinade is the key to achieving the perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours, and we will guide you through the process of making it from scratch.
• Adding seafood such as prawns or scallops can add a unique flavour to the dish and elevate it to a whole new level.

Essential Ingredients and Substitutes

Selecting the Pork Cut

The cut of pork you use for your Chinese roast pork loin recipe will have a significant impact on the final dish. Pork loin, pork shoulder, pork belly, and pork tenderloin are all popular choices for this recipe. Pork loin is the leanest option, while pork belly has more fat. Pork shoulder is a good choice if you want a more succulent and tender meat. Pork tenderloin is the most tender cut of pork, but it can dry out quickly if overcooked.

If you are looking for a substitute for pork, you can use seafood instead. Shrimp or prawns can be a great addition to the recipe. Simply marinate them in the same marinade as the pork and grill them until cooked through.

Key Chinese Flavours

The key to a great Chinese roast pork loin recipe is using the right combination of flavours. Garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, Chinese five spice, salt, sugar, sesame oil, oyster sauce, scallions, and carrot are all essential ingredients. Garlic and scallions add a savoury flavour, while soy sauce and oyster sauce add saltiness. Hoisin sauce and sugar add sweetness, and Chinese five spice adds a unique aroma and flavour.

If you are looking for a substitute for any of these ingredients, you can use similar ingredients that have a similar flavour profile. For example, if you don't have hoisin sauce, you can use plum sauce instead. If you don't have sesame oil, you can use peanut oil.

In conclusion, choosing the right cut of pork and using the right combination of flavours is key to making a delicious Chinese roast pork loin. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and substitutes to create your perfect recipe.

Marinade Mastery

Creating the Perfect Marinade

The marinade is the key to achieving the perfect flavour for your Chinese roast pork loin. To create a delicious marinade, you will need the following ingredients: dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, white pepper, ginger, Shaoxing rice wine, molasses, and red food coloring (optional).

To begin, mix all the marinade ingredients together in a bowl. The molasses and honey will add sweetness, while the soy sauce and Shaoxing rice wine will add a savoury flavour. The ginger and white pepper will add a subtle spiciness, and the hoisin sauce will add a rich, umami flavour.

If you prefer a sweeter marinade, you can add more honey or maltose to the mixture. If you like your marinade to be spicier, you can add more white pepper or ginger. For a richer flavour, you can add more hoisin sauce.

Marinating Time Guidelines

Once you have created your marinade, it's time to marinate your pork loin. For best results, it is recommended to marinate the pork loin for at least 24 hours in the fridge. This will allow the flavours to fully penetrate the meat and result in a delicious, succulent roast pork loin.

If you are short on time, you can marinate the pork for a minimum of 4 hours, but the longer you marinate it, the better the flavour will be. It is important to note that marinating the pork for too long can result in the meat becoming too salty, so be sure to follow the recommended marinating time guidelines.

As a suggestion, you can also use seafood in this recipe. Fresh prawns or scallops can be marinated in the same marinade mixture for a seafood twist on this classic dish.

Roasting Techniques

Oven Preparation

Before roasting your Chinese roast pork loin, it is important to ensure that your oven is well prepared. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a wire rack on top of a baking tray. This will allow air to circulate around the pork, ensuring that it cooks evenly and becomes crispy on all sides.

Roasting to Perfection

Once your oven is preheated and your pork is ready to go, place it on the wire rack and let it roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the pork to ensure that it doesn't burn. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. It should be at 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked.

If you want to add a smoky flavour to your roast pork, you can also try cooking it on a barbecue with coal. This will give your pork a delicious charred flavour that is sure to impress your guests.

While seafood is not typically used in Chinese roast pork loin recipes, you can always experiment with adding some seafood to your dish. For example, you could try adding some prawns or scallops to your marinade to give your pork a unique flavour. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure that the seafood is fully cooked.

Serving and Accompaniments

Slicing and Presentation

Once your Chinese roast pork loin is cooked to perfection, it's time to slice and present it. You can slice the pork loin into 1/4-inch thick pieces, which should yield around 12 to 14 slices. Arrange the slices on a platter, overlapping them slightly for an attractive presentation.

To add some visual appeal, garnish the platter with some fresh herbs, such as coriander or parsley. Alternatively, you could sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the pork slices.

Complementary Sides

Chinese roast pork loin is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Rice: A simple bowl of steamed rice is a classic accompaniment to Chinese roast pork loin. You could also try making fried rice with some diced pork, vegetables, and eggs.

• Bao Buns: If you're looking for something a little more substantial, try serving your pork slices in some fluffy bao buns. Add some hoisin sauce, cucumber, and scallions for a delicious and satisfying meal.

• Pork Fried Rice: For a one-dish meal, try making pork fried rice. This dish combines diced pork, vegetables, and rice, all stir-fried together with some soy sauce and eggs.

• Seafood: For a twist on the classic recipe, you could try adding some seafood to your Chinese roast pork loin. Shrimp, scallops, and squid are all great options. Simply stir-fry them with some garlic and ginger before adding them to the pork.

Remember to adjust the serving size and number of slices based on the number of people you are serving. Enjoy your Chinese roast pork loin with your favourite accompaniments!

Nutritional Information

If you're looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, Chinese roast pork loin is a great option. This recipe is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for those who are watching their weight.

A serving of Chinese roast pork loin contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the size of the portion. This makes it a great choice for those who are looking to maintain a healthy weight or lose a few pounds.

In terms of preparation time, this recipe is relatively quick and easy. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and another 10 minutes to score the pork loin and apply the marinade. After that, it takes about an hour to roast the pork loin in the oven.

If you're looking to add a little extra flavour to your Chinese roast pork loin, you could consider adding seafood to the recipe. Shrimp or scallops are great options that pair well with the pork. Simply add them to the marinade or serve them alongside the pork for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Overall, Chinese roast pork loin is a healthy and delicious meal that is quick and easy to prepare. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

After-Cooking Tips

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Chinese BBQ pork, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the leftover pork in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat the pork, you can either microwave it or reheat it in the oven.

Repurposing the Roast

If you have some leftover Chinese roast pork loin, you can use it in a variety of dishes. For example, you can slice the pork and use it in a stir-fry with vegetables and noodles. You can also use it as a topping for rice bowls or salads. Another idea is to make a sandwich with the pork, adding some pickled vegetables and a little bit of hoisin sauce.

If you want to add some seafood to your Chinese roast pork loin recipe, you could try adding some shrimp or scallops to your stir-fry. Simply cook the seafood separately and add it to the stir-fry at the end. Alternatively, you could try making a seafood-based sauce to go with your pork. For example, you could make a prawn sauce by sautéing some prawns with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Serve the sauce over the sliced pork for a delicious seafood twist on Cantonese roast meat.

Remember that when it comes to reheating your Chinese BBQ pork, it's important to do it properly to avoid any food safety issues. Make sure to heat the pork to an internal temperature of at least 75°C before eating it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the trick to getting really tender pork loin?

The trick to getting really tender pork loin is to not overcook it. Pork loin should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking the pork loin to a higher temperature will cause it to dry out and become tough. Additionally, allowing the pork loin to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy roast.

Can you suggest an easy marinade for a Chinese-style pork roast?

For an easy Chinese-style marinade, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger and five-spice powder. You can also add a touch of sesame oil for extra flavour. Marinate the pork loin in the mixture for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

What's the best way to cook a pork loin in a slow cooker without it drying out?

To cook a pork loin in a slow cooker without it drying out, sear the pork loin on all sides before placing it in the slow cooker. This will help to lock in the juices and keep the meat moist. Cook the pork loin on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Are there any simple twists on the classic char siu recipe?

One simple twist on the classic char siu recipe is to use seafood in the marinade. Try adding shrimp paste or fish sauce to the marinade for an extra umami flavour. You can also use fish sauce or oyster sauce in place of the hoisin sauce for a different flavour profile.

How can I ensure my pork loin roast stays moist throughout cooking?

To ensure your pork loin roast stays moist throughout cooking, baste it with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavourful. You can also cover the pork loin with foil for the first half of the cooking time to help retain moisture.

Does pork loin and pork loin roast refer to the same cut of meat?

Yes, pork loin and pork loin roast refer to the same cut of meat. Pork loin is a lean cut of meat that is ideal for roasting. It is typically sold boneless and can be cooked whole or cut into chops.