Authentic Cantonese Char Siu Recipe

(Cantonese-style barbecued pork served in slices)

With which dishes is Cantonese Char Siu served?

Cantonese Char Siu (Cantonese-style barbecued pork) is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, especially from the Guangdong region. It is typically served either as a main dish or as a flavorful topping/ingredient in a variety of meals. Below are the most common and traditional accompaniments:

Traditional pairings for Cantonese Char Siu

1. Steamed white rice (白飯)
   The most classic pairing. The fluffy, neutral flavor of steamed rice balances the sweet and savory richness of the pork.

2. Stir-fried noodles (炒麵, chǎomiàn)

   • Wheat or egg noodles stir-fried with vegetables and a light soy-based sauce.

   • Sometimes served dry with Char Siu slices on top.

3. Char Siu Bao (叉燒包) – Steamed buns
   One of the most iconic dim sum dishes: soft steamed buns filled with diced Char Siu in a sweet-savory sauce.

4. Dim sum selections
   Char Siu appears in many dim sum dishes, including baked buns, puff pastries, and rice rolls (cheung fun).

5. Chinese greens (like gai lan 芥蘭)
   Typically stir-fried with garlic, these vegetables offer freshness and crunch, balancing the pork’s richness.

6. Noodle soups
   Sliced Char Siu is often added to bowls of clear or soy-based broths with noodles, especially in Hong Kong-style wonton noodle soups.

7. Street food and modern twists
   Char Siu is sometimes served in bao buns, sandwiches, or wraps as a contemporary take on the traditional dish.

Summary table