If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, you're probably already familiar with Chinese Style Barbecue Pork. This popular dish is made by marinating pork in a savory blend of spices and then roasting it until it's tender and juicy. A serving of 3 oz (85 g) of Chinese Style Barbecue Pork contains around 130 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for meat lovers.

In addition to being low in calories, Chinese Style Barbecue Pork is also a good source of protein, with each 3 oz (85 g) serving containing around 12-13 grams of protein. However, it's important to note that this dish can be high in sodium and sugar, depending on how it's prepared.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at Chinese Style Barbecue Pork and explore its nutritional benefits, how it fits into a balanced diet, and share some delicious recipes that use this flavorful meat.

What is Chinese Style Barbecue Pork?

Chinese Style Barbecue Pork, also known as Char Siu, is a popular dish in Guangdong cuisine. It's made by marinating pork in a sauce made from honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and spices like five spice powder. The pork is then roasted until it's tender and juicy, with a sweet and savory flavor. Traditionally, Char Siu is made by roasting a whole pig on a spit. However, it's also commonly made with pork shoulder or tenderloin. The marinade and roasting process gives the pork a bright red color that's distinctive of Chinese Style Barbecue Pork. Chinese Style Barbecue Pork is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It's often sliced and served as a main dish with rice, noodles, or vegetables, but it can also be used as a filling for bao buns or spring rolls.

How many calories are in 3 oz (85 g) of Chinese Style Barbecue Pork?

A 3 oz (85 g) serving of Chinese Style Barbecue Pork contains around 130 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for meat lovers who are watching their calorie intake. However, it's important to note that the calorie count can vary depending on how the pork is prepared. If it's made with a sugar-heavy marinade or served with a high-calorie sauce, the calorie count can be significantly higher.

What are the ingredients in Chinese Style Barbecue Pork?

The ingredients in Chinese Style Barbecue Pork can vary depending on the recipe, but typically include pork, honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five spice powder, and garlic. Some recipes may also include other seasonings like ginger, red food coloring, or Shaoxing wine. The marinade is made by combining the ingredients in a bowl and whisking them together until smooth.

Is Chinese Style Barbecue Pork healthy?

While Chinese Style Barbecue Pork can be a healthy option for meat lovers, it's important to be mindful of the sodium and sugar content. Some recipes can be quite high in both, which can contribute to health issues like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. If you're watching your sodium and sugar intake, it's a good idea to look for recipes that use a lighter marinade and serve the pork with fresh vegetables or a low-calorie sauce.

How does Chinese Style Barbecue Pork fit into a balanced diet?

Chinese Style Barbecue Pork can be a satisfying and delicious addition to a balanced diet, especially when served with plenty of fresh veggies. To keep your meal in balance, aim to make half your plate veggies and one quarter protein, like Chinese Style Barbecue Pork, and one quarter complex carbohydrates, like brown rice or quinoa.

What are the health benefits of Chinese Style Barbecue Pork?

Chinese Style Barbecue Pork is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues in your body. It's also a good source of iron, which is important for red blood cell production and oxygen delivery throughout your body. In addition, the marinade used in Chinese Style Barbecue Pork contains antioxidant-rich spices like garlic and five spice powder, which can help protect your body against damage from free radicals.

How is Chinese Style Barbecue Pork prepared?

Chinese Style Barbecue Pork is typically prepared by marinating pork in a sweet and savory sauce for several hours, or even overnight. The marinade helps to infuse the pork with flavor and tenderize the meat. After marinating, the pork is roasted in the oven until it's cooked through and caramelized on the outside. The roasting time can vary depending on the cut of meat and how thick it is.

What are some dishes that use Chinese Style Barbecue Pork?

Chinese Style Barbecue Pork is a versatile dish that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some delicious dishes that use Chinese Style Barbecue Pork:

• Char Siu Bao (steamed buns filled with Chinese Style Barbecue Pork)
• Char Siu Fried Rice (fried rice with Chinese Style Barbecue Pork, veggies, and egg)
• Char Siu Noodles (noodles with Chinese Style Barbecue Pork, bok choy, and scallions)

Can Chinese Style Barbecue Pork be frozen?

Yes, Chinese Style Barbecue Pork can be frozen for later use. To freeze, let the pork cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw frozen Chinese Style Barbecue Pork, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, it can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Where can you buy Chinese Style Barbecue Pork?

Chinese Style Barbecue Pork is a popular dish that can be found in many Chinese restaurants and markets. If you're looking to make it at home, you can find pork shoulder or tenderloin at most grocery stores or meat markets. To make the marinade, you'll need basic pantry ingredients like honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and five spice powder. These can be found at most grocery stores or online.