Instant Pot Char Siu
Introduction
Instant Pot Char Siu delivers all the irresistible flavors of classic Cantonese barbecue pork without hours of marinating or babysitting the oven. Sweet, savory, and beautifully caramelized, this recipe takes full advantage of the pressure cooker for quick and succulent results.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you crave authentic Chinese fare without fuss, this shortcut version of Char Siu becomes a reliable crowd-pleaser every time.
Deliciously Unique Instant Pot Char Siu
What sets Instant Pot Char Siu apart is the ability to achieve deep flavor in a fraction of traditional time. The marinade infuses pork with notes of hoisin, soy, five-spice, and honey, while the pressure cooker keeps it extra juicy. Finish with a quick broil or air fry for those signature charred bits—and you have restaurant-quality barbecue pork ready in just about an hour.
Preparing and Marinating Your Pork
Start with pork shoulder or pork loin, trimmed and cut lengthwise into strips about 2 inches thick for optimal flavor absorption. A precise cut will help marinate the pork evenly—try using the Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 for a stable, mess-free prep.
For the marinade, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, Chinese five spice, garlic, and a touch of red food coloring if you want that classic red hue. For best results, marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes (or overnight, if time allows), using a resealable bag or an airtight container.
Cooking Char Siu in the Instant Pot
Transfer the marinated pork and marinade into the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart. Add about 1/4 cup of water to avoid burn warnings. Set to “Pressure Cook” and cook for 18 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes before venting. This locks in flavor and guarantees fork-tender pork.
Once cooked, remove the pork and reduce the remaining sauce using the “Sauté” function until thickened—this becomes your lacquered glaze. For extra char and caramelization, use the broiler or the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 for 5 minutes to achieve crispy edges.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
Slice the char siu thinly and serve over steamed jasmine rice, tuck it into bao buns, or top a noodle bowl for an authentic flair. Use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to quickly prep sides like cucumber or scallions for that perfect crunch.
Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for easy meal prep—Char Siu is just as good the next day!
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe serves 4–6 people. Each serving contains approximately 300-350 calories (based on 1/2-inch pork slices and glaze); values will vary depending on the cut of meat and final portion sizes.
Why Make Instant Pot Char Siu?
With authentic flavors, tender pork, and a caramelized finish, this foolproof Instant Pot Char Siu transforms an average dinner into something extraordinary—no takeout required. It’s the ultimate shortcut to big, bold barbecue flavors at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine hoisin, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, brown sugar, Shaoxing wine, five-spice, garlic, sesame oil, and food coloring in a bowl.
- Add pork strips, coat thoroughly, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight if possible).
- Transfer pork and marinade into the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart. Add ¼ cup water.
- Seal and set to “Pressure Cook” on High for 18 minutes. Natural release for 10 minutes, then manually vent.
- Remove pork to a tray. Set Instant Pot to Sauté and simmer marinade until reduced and syrupy—about 7 minutes.
- Brush pork with thickened sauce and broil in oven or place in the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 at 400°F for 5 minutes, turning once for caramelized edges.
- Rest 10 minutes, slice thin, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45–75 minutes (depending on marinating time)
