Air Fryer Char Siu Pork Chops

What is char siu pork?

Char siu, also called Chinese BBQ pork, is a sweet and sticky roasted pork dish from Cantonese cuisine. It’s usually cooked in the oven or over a fire, giving it a glossy red glaze and caramelised edges. This air fryer char siu pork brings the same rich flavour to your home kitchen, making it a perfect fakeaway dinner recipe.

Can you cook char siu pork in an air fryer?

Yes, absolutely. The air fryer is ideal because it cooks the pork quickly, gives crispy, caramelised edges, keeps the inside juicy, and uses less energy than an oven. It’s a simple way to make a fakeaway pork dinner recipe at home.

What cut of pork is best for char siu?

The best cuts of pork for char siu are pork shoulder, which is the most traditional and juicy; pork belly, which is richer and more tender; and pork loin, a leaner option. For the air fryer, pork shoulder works beautifully, giving excellent flavour and texture.

How long does char siu pork take in the air fryer?

Cooking time depends on thickness, but generally, it takes 18–25 minutes at 180-190°C. Turn the pork halfway through and brush with extra glaze near the end. The pork is ready when it reaches 63°C internally, followed by a short rest before slicing.

How do you get char siu pork sticky?

For that classic sticky glaze, marinate the pork for at least four hours (overnight is best), brush extra sauce on during cooking, and cook the last few minutes at a slightly higher temperature. This creates the glossy, caramelised finish you expect from a proper fakeaway.

What does char siu pork taste like?

Char siu pork has a balanced flavour: sweet, savoury, slightly smoky, sticky, and rich. It’s comforting and full of flavour, making it a brilliant pork dinner recipe for the whole family.

Can I make char siu pork ahead of time?

Yes. You can marinate the pork up to 24 hours in advance, cook it and store it in the fridge for up to three days, then reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes. This makes it great for meal prep and easy midweek dinners.

What do you serve with air fryer char siu pork?

Simple sides work best, such as steamed rice, egg fried rice, stir-fried greens, noodles, or bao buns. It also works sliced in wraps or added to a fakeaway feast night.

Is air fryer char siu pork healthy?

It can be a lighter option compared to takeaway versions because you control the sugar, use less oil, and avoid deep frying. Choosing lean pork loin will further reduce fat if preferred.

Can I freeze char siu pork?

Yes. Let it cool completely, slice before freezing, and store in an airtight container for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer or microwave.