If you're looking for an easy, satisfying meal that won't break the bank, look no further than 1 Portion Char Siu Pork with Rice. At just 451 calories per serving, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition to keep you energized and satisfied throughout the day.

Char Siu Pork is a traditional Chinese dish made with marinated pork that is roasted until tender and caramelized. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, it makes for the perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

In this article, we'll explore the history and cultural significance of Char Siu Pork, as well as its nutritional benefits and variations.

What is Char Siu Pork?

Char Siu Pork is a popular Chinese dish that originates from Cantonese cuisine. It is made with pork that is marinated in a combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and spices, then roasted until tender and caramelized. The marinade gives the pork a sweet and savory flavor and a bright red color, which is why it is also known as Chinese BBQ pork. Char Siu Pork is usually served over rice or noodles, or used as a filling in steamed buns or dumplings. Char Siu Pork is beloved for its rich flavor and versatility. It can be served as a main dish or used as an ingredient in other recipes, such as fried rice or stir-fries.

The Nutritional Value of a Portion of Char Siu Pork with Rice

One portion of Char Siu Pork with Rice (about 1 cup of cooked rice and 3 oz of pork) contains approximately 451 calories. It also contains 16 grams of fat, 48 grams of carbohydrates, and 22 grams of protein. Although Char Siu Pork is relatively high in calories and fat, it also contains important nutrients such as vitamin B-12, vitamin A, iron, and zinc. In moderation, it can be a healthy and satisfying meal option. To make Char Siu Pork with Rice even more nutritious, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

How to Make Char Siu Pork with Rice

Although Char Siu Pork can be found at many Chinese restaurants and takeout places, it is also relatively easy to make at home. Here is a simple recipe for Char Siu Pork with Rice: Ingredients: - 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into strips - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup hoisin sauce - 1/4 cup honey - 1 tsp five-spice powder - 1/2 tsp salt - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tbsp vegetable oil - 4 cups cooked white rice

What to Serve With Char Siu Pork with Rice

Char Siu Pork with Rice is a complete meal in itself, but you can also serve it with a variety of side dishes to make it even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas: - Steamed or stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy, snow peas, or broccoli - Egg drop soup or hot and sour soup - Spring rolls or egg rolls - Fried wontons or dumplings - Chinese tea or a cold beer Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations and find what works best for your taste buds.

The History of Char Siu Pork

Char Siu Pork has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient China. It was originally made by roasting wild boar over an open flame, and it soon became a staple of Cantonese cuisine. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Char Siu Pork became popular in restaurants and teahouses throughout Hong Kong, where it was served as a snack or appetizer. Today, it is enjoyed all over the world as a flavorful and comforting meal.

The Cultural Significance of Char Siu Pork

Char Siu Pork is more than just a tasty dish - it also has important cultural significance in Chinese cuisine. Because pigs are considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture, pork dishes are often served at celebrations and special occasions. Char Siu Pork is also associated with the color red, which is considered lucky in Chinese culture. The red color of the pork comes from the marinade, which includes red food coloring or beet juice. In addition, Char Siu Pork is often used as an offering in ancestor worship and other traditional ceremonies.

Char Siu Pork Variations

While the classic Char Siu Pork recipe is delicious on its own, there are many variations you can try to customize the flavor to your liking. Some variations include: - Char Siu Pork with honey glaze - Char Siu Pork with pineapple - Char Siu Pork with spicy mustard sauce - Char Siu Pork with black bean sauce Feel free to experiment with different spices, sauces, and marinades to create your perfect Char Siu Pork recipe.

The Health Benefits of Char Siu Pork

Despite its relatively high calorie and fat content, Char Siu Pork does have some health benefits. Pork is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin B-12, zinc, and iron. In addition, the marinade for Char Siu Pork is often made with ingredients that have health benefits of their own. For example, honey is a natural source of antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects. Just be sure to enjoy Char Siu Pork in moderation and balance it with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Char Siu Pork vs. Other Pork Dishes

When it comes to pork dishes, Char Siu Pork is a relatively healthy option compared to some other dishes. For example, dishes like sweet and sour pork or General Tso's pork are often deep-fried and coated in heavy batter, which can make them high in calories and unhealthy fats. Char Siu Pork, on the other hand, is usually just roasted or grilled, which means it retains its natural flavor and nutrients without adding excess calories or unhealthy fats. Of course, like any dish, the nutritional value of Char Siu Pork will depend on how it is prepared and served. Be mindful of portion sizes and opt for healthy cooking methods to maximize its health benefits.

Where to Find Char Siu Pork

Char Siu Pork is a common dish at Chinese restaurants and takeout places, so it shouldn't be hard to find. You can also make it at home using the recipe we provided above. If you're looking for an authentic Chinese dining experience, look for restaurants that specialize in Cantonese cuisine. These restaurants will often have a variety of Char Siu Pork dishes to choose from, as well as other traditional Chinese dishes and beverages. Whether you enjoy Char Siu Pork at home or at a restaurant, it's sure to become a favorite meal option that you'll come back to again and again.