Chinese BBQ beef

Just like your favorite takeout joint, this Chinese BBQ beef has a juicy inside with a sweet, caramelized crust on the outside! Full of flavor and easy to make in the oven or on the grill, it will remind you of your favorite Char Siu! Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and delightful aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of hoisin and oyster sauce creates an incredible taste that’s both sweet and savory.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer baking or grilling, this Chinese BBQ beef adapts perfectly to your cooking style.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at dinner parties, family meals, or even as leftovers for lunch!
• Garnish Options: Customize with your choice of toppings for added flair and freshness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Having the essential equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A large baking sheet provides ample space for the beef to cook evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating the meat thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated.
• Whisk: Helps combine the marinade ingredients smoothly for better flavor absorption.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 2 lb boneless beef shoulder or butt

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Sweetness

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For Garnish

• 3 green onions (sliced)

How to Make Chinese BBQ beef

Step 1: Cut the Beef

Cut beef into cubed pieces (about 1 inch by 1 inch). The beef cooks faster and absorbs the marinade more evenly when cubed. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a separate bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add meat and toss to coat well. Cover with saran wrap or foil and marinate for 8 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a large 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Arrange Meat on Baking Sheet

Spread meat and sauce onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Sprinkle sugar evenly over the top; this will create a delicious crust as it cooks.

Step 5: Bake Until Done

Bake in the heated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes until the beef reaches an internal temp of 145°F.

Step 6: Broil for Extra Char (Optional)

After cooking through, you may choose to eat now or make it crispy. To add more char to your Chinese BBQ beef, set oven to broil. Broil each side for 3-4 minutes (6-8 minutes total) at the very end when meat has finished cooking.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish your Chinese BBQ beef with sliced green onions and serve alongside sticky rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chinese BBQ beef

Chinese BBQ beef is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Serving it with the right accompaniments can enhance the flavors and make for a memorable meal.

With Sticky Rice

• Sticky rice is a classic pairing that complements the sweet and savory flavors of Chinese BBQ beef perfectly.

In a Wrap

• Use lettuce or steamed buns to wrap the beef, adding fresh vegetables like cucumber for crunch and freshness.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• A mix of stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the beef.

On a Salad

• Serve slices of Chinese BBQ beef on a bed of mixed greens with a light sesame dressing for a refreshing option.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a platter with assorted Asian appetizers like spring rolls and dumplings alongside your Chinese BBQ beef for sharing.

How to Perfect Chinese BBQ beef

To achieve the best results when making Chinese BBQ beef, consider these tips for flavor and texture.

• Choose the right cut: Opt for boneless beef shoulder or butt; these cuts are tender and flavorful when cooked.
• Marinate longer: For enhanced flavor, marinate the beef overnight instead of just 8 hours.
• Use sugar wisely: Sprinkle sugar generously on top before baking; it caramelizes beautifully, creating that signature crust.
• Broil for crispiness: If you desire extra char, finish your dish by broiling it for a few minutes until the edges are crispy.
• Garnish generously: Fresh green onions not only add color but also a nice crunch that complements the dish’s richness.
• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences; adding more hoisin can increase sweetness if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Chinese BBQ beef

When serving Chinese BBQ beef, consider these delicious side dishes to round out your meal. They offer varied textures and flavors that pair wonderfully with this dish.

1. Fried Rice
   A fragrant fried rice filled with vegetables or proteins makes for a hearty accompaniment to your BBQ beef.
2. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide an excellent crunchy texture contrast to the tender beef.
3. Hot and Sour Soup
   This tangy soup adds depth to your meal while cleansing the palate between bites of savory barbecue.
4. Asian Slaw
   A colorful slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness and crunch next to your rich main dish.
5. Cucumber Salad
   A cool cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a refreshing element that balances out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
6. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also provides a vibrant green contrast on your plate.
7. Noodles
   Serve chilled or warm noodles tossed in soy sauce as another delightful side option that soaks up any leftover flavors from your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chinese BBQ beef can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overlooking the marinating time: Skipping or shortening the marinating period can lead to less flavorful beef. Make sure to marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
• Using the wrong cut of beef: Choosing a tough cut can result in chewy meat. Opt for boneless beef shoulder or butt, which provides tenderness and flavor.
• Not preheating the oven: Cooking without preheating can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to 375°F before baking your Chinese BBQ beef.
• Skipping the sugar topping: Forgetting to sprinkle sugar on top before baking will prevent that caramelized crust. The sugar is essential for creating that delicious outer layer.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may result in undercooked or overcooked beef. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chinese BBQ beef in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure it’s cooled down before placing it in the fridge to maintain quality.

Freezing Chinese BBQ beef

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen Chinese BBQ beef can last up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Chinese BBQ beef

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the beef with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts (30 seconds at a time) until hot.
• Stovetop: Slice the beef into smaller pieces and heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chinese BBQ beef more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider adding extra spices like five-spice powder or ginger when marinating your meat. This will give your dish more depth.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe is great with beef, you can also use pork or chicken. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the type of meat you choose.

What should I serve with Chinese BBQ beef?

Chinese BBQ beef pairs well with sticky rice, steamed vegetables, or fried rice. These sides help balance the rich flavors of the meat.

How do I store leftovers of Chinese BBQ beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage if needed.

What is Char Siu?

Char Siu refers to Cantonese-style roasted pork that is often glazed with a sweet sauce. This recipe mimics that style using tender cuts of beef instead.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese BBQ beef recipe offers a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that will transport you right back to your favorite takeout spot! It’s versatile enough to customize with different spices or side dishes according to your taste. Give it a try and impress your family with this delicious meal!

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Chinese BBQ Beef

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Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Chinese BBQ beef, a dish that perfectly combines succulent meat with a sweet, caramelized crust. This quick and easy recipe captures the essence of your favorite takeout, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll enjoy a flavor explosion courtesy of hoisin and oyster sauce. Cook it in the oven or on the grill for ultimate versatility! Whether served as a main dish or part of a delightful platter, this Chinese BBQ beef is sure to impress.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb boneless beef shoulder or butt
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Cut beef into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss beef in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Spread marinated beef on the baking sheet and sprinkle sugar over it.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Optional: Broil for extra char for an additional 6-8 minutes.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the beef overnight. Adjust sugar quantity based on desired sweetness. Experiment with different sauces to tailor the taste to your preferences.