Pork Dishes

Pork is a culinary staple around the world, but is especially important in Chinese cooking. A versatile ingredient that lends itself to a number of dishes and cooking methods, pork boasts a richness that works well with warm spices as well as pungent ingredients like garlic and ginger, both of which feature often in Chinese recipes. You’ll find pork in a number of dishes from dumplings to stir-fry, but this roasted pork is particularly beloved. It can be found at many Cantonese restaurants, typically hung on hooks in front of a display window, glossy red on the outside and juicy on the inside. As for the flavor, it can lean either more sweet or savory. We prefer a slightly sweeter char siu with a twist: the addition of peanut butter lends a subtle nutty flavor that makes the meat even more delicious. Serve it over white rice with a Chinese green vegetable, such as bok choy, and a light drizzle of soy sauce. Any leftovers are great tossed fried rice, noodle soups or vegetable side dishes, too.