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    Home » Pork

    What To Serve With Char Siu Pork: 27 Delicious Sides

    Published: Oct 5, 2023 by Yuan

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    Do you know what to serve with char siu pork? If you've ever enjoyed the sweet and savory flavors of char siu pork at a Chinese restaurant, you know how delicious this dish can be. Whether you're grilling up pork belly, pork loin, pork tenderloin, or any other cut of pork. The secret to achieving the best results lies in the flavorful char siu marinade and the cooking process. But what about the perfect side dishes to complement this Cantonese cuisine classic? Let's dive into a world of delectable options for serving with your homemade char siu pork. I gathered a collection of side dish recipes that go well with your char siu pork. Read on!

    what to serve with char siu pork
    Jump To
    • The star of the show: Char siu pork
    • Rice dishes
    • Noodle dishes
    • Vegetable dishes
    • Soup and pickle dishes
    • Leftover Char Siu ideas
    • What to serve with char siu pork: final thoughts
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    The star of the show: Char siu pork

    Before we delve into the world of side dishes, let's quickly revisit what makes char siu pork so special.  Char siu pork, also known as Chinese barbecue pork, is a popular and flavorful Cantonese dish. It features tender, marinated, and roasted pork. The pork used for char siu is typically boneless and can come from various cuts, such as boneless pork shoulder, pork loin, pork butt, or pork belly. The meat is marinated in marinade ingredients, including a blend of hoisin sauce(optional), raw honey(or brown sugar), Chinese five-spice powder, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, etc. You can use red fermented bean curd to add a natural red color to the pork; you can get the bean curd in any Asian market. Alternatively, some individuals use red food coloring to achieve that classic "vibrant Chinatown-style char siu." 

    Once marinated, you can roast or charcoal grill the pork until it develops a slightly caramelized and charred exterior while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. You can also make a homemade version of air fry char siu pork and turn it into a quicker and more convenient dinner!  Char siu pork's sweet and savory flavor makes it a favorite in Cantonese cuisine and a popular item on the menus of many Chinese restaurants.

    Rice dishes

    Char siu pork is known for its sweet and savory flavors. Pairing it with fluffy rice helps balance the richness of the pork. As a staple in Chinese cuisine, white rice provides a neutral base that perfectly complements the rich flavors of char siu pork. Opt for jasmine rice for a fragrant touch. There are also a few rice dish choices that provide a pleasing contrast in texture to the tender and slightly crispy char siu pork. 

    Forbidden rice, also known as Chinese black rice. The striking black or purplish color of forbidden rice sets it apart from other types of rice. The taste of black rice can be described as a delightful mix of nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet flavors. Their unique flavor makes them a perfect side dish.:)

    1. Forbidden Black Rice
    Forbidden black rice, is known as violet rice or purple rice. This delicious black rice is a family heirloom that dates to ancient China.
    Check out this recipe
    black rice

    Chicken fried rice is a classic dish that goes along with lots of food. The combination of tender pieces of chicken, aromatic vegetables, and the rice itself, all seasoned with soy sauce and other seasonings, creates a delicious flavor.

    2. Chicken Fried Rice
    Chicken fried rice is one of the most comforting Chinese dishes. It has been around for a long time and is also popular in kitchens.
    Check out this recipe
    chicken fried rice

    Gochujang fried rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish. It is for those who appreciate a little heat and a lot of flavor in their meals. 

    3. Gochujang Fried Rice With Kimchi
    This gochujang fried rice is a flavourful and easy weeknight meal. Get this flavour-packed one-pan meal on the table in 15 minutes. It serves two people as a main or four as a side.
    Check out this recipe
    gochujang fried rice

    Cilantro lime brown rice prepared in an Instant Pot has a delightful and refreshing flavor. The Instant Pot produces perfectly cooked brown rice with a tender texture. Cilantro lime brown rice is a popular and flavorful option. Especially for those looking to add a burst of freshness and zing to their rice dishes.

    4. Cilantro Lime Brown Rice Instant Pot
    The base of any burrito bowl just got better with this instant pot cilantro lime brown rice! Simplify cook time by utilizing the pressure cooker for this easy side dish. Fresh lime juice, lime zest and herby cilantro flavor up this perfectly cooked brown rice recipe.
    Check out this recipe

    Blackstone fried rice is characterized by its use of a Blackstone griddle (hibachi) or flat-top grill. It imparts a unique cooking style and flavor to the dish.

    5. Blackstone Fried Rice
    Blackstone Fried Rice is a hibachi fried rice recipe for a delicious Japanese teppanyaki meal. Make this Blackstone recipe on your griddle!
    Check out this recipe
    Blackstone fried rice

    Rice cooker coconut rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish cooked in a rice cooker using coconut milk, water, and rice. It is a popular dish in many Asian countries. It is popular for its creamy, fragrant, and slightly sweet flavor. 

    6. Rice Cooker Coconut Rice
    Made easily in the rice cooker, this recipe is the perfect side to a variety of dishes and turns out great every time!
    Check out this recipe

    Noodle dishes

    Shrimp mei fun is an excellent side dish for meat due to its contrasting texture and light and refreshing nature. They create a visual appeal and balanced meal.

    7. Easy Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe (Stir Fry Rice Noodles)
    Shrimp mei fun, also known as shrimp rice noodles, is a mouthwatering and widely beloved Chinese noodle dish.
    Check out this recipe
    shrimp mei fun 1

    Lo mein is a staple in many Asian cuisines. It typically consists of soft noodles. Which contrast nicely with the often tender and juicy texture of the cooked char siu pork.

    8. Lo Mein Noodles
    In mere minutes, you’ll be dishing up unbelievable flavor with this 20-Minute Skillet Lo Mein. Keep it vegetarian or pair it with your favorite protein. 
    Check out this recipe

    Pad see ew is a popular Thai stir-fried noodle dish known for its distinctive and delicious flavor. It is a comforting and satisfying noodle dish that appeals to different people.

    9. Garlicky Pad See Ew (Thai Rice Noodle Stir Fry)
    Homemade Pad See Ew is a quick and delicious Thai noodle stir fry! Chewy rice noodles tossed in a brown sauce with Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan) and fried garlic. This tastes just like your favorite Thai restaurant, but it's easy enough to make at home!
    Check out this recipe
    pad see ew

    Vegan garlic chili noodles are popular among those who enjoy bold and spicy flavors in their meals and prefer plant-based options.

    10. 15-Minute Vegan Chili Garlic Noodle
    Perfect for busy weeknights, these vegan chili garlic noodles can be made in just 15 minutes and are loaded with flavor: savory, nutty, garlicky, and spicy!
    Check out this recipe
    garlic noodles

    Plain chow mein, often referred to simply as "chow mein." It is a popular Chinese stir-fried noodle dish known for its simplicity and versatility. It's a flavorful and satisfying dish. 

    11. Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)
    Here's how to make Chinese takeaway plain chow mein with this easy recipe. These noodles are so tasty and make the perfect quick stir fry.
    Check out this recipe
    Chinese lo mein

    Garlic fried noodles, or garlic noodles, are delicious and savory noodles with a prominent garlic flavor. 

    12 Minute Garlic Fried Noodles
    Just 15 minutes and 6 ingredients is all you need for this super easy, flavorful, rice noodle side dish!
    Check out this recipe
    garlic fried noodles

    Vegetable dishes

    Serving stir-fried vegetables along with char siu pork is the best way to enjoy your meal. Chinese shredded potato is a great option. It's a popular side dish for its simplicity and deliciousness.

    13. Sichuan Stir-Fried Chinese Shredded Potato (酸辣土豆丝)
    Chinese shredded potato is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of Sichuan cuisine to your table.
    Check out this recipe
    Chinese shredded potato 1

    Air fryer Brussels sprouts make a nutritious addition to the char siu pork meal. 

    14. Air Fryer Frozen Brussel Sprouts: The easiest recipe
    Air fryer frozen Brussel sprouts are a quick and delicious side dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
    Check out this recipe
    air fryer frozen Brussel sprouts

    Broccoli and mushroom stir-fry is a delicious dish made by quickly cooking broccoli florets and mushrooms in a hot wok with a savory stir-fry sauce. 

    15. Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry: Quick and Healthy
    This simple yet delicious recipe combines tender broccoli, meaty mushrooms, and a savory sauce that will feel satisfying.
    Check out this recipe
    broccoli and mushroom stir fry 1

    A refreshing cucumber salad with a sesame dressing adds a crisp contrast to the rich char siu pork.

    16. Chinese Cucumber Salad
    Chinese cucumber salad is a delicious, refreshing salad that's great as a side or an appetizer. This recipe is easy to make at home.
    Check out this recipe
    cucumber salad

    You can quickly stir-fry baby bok choy with garlic and light soy sauce.

    17. Stir Fry Bok Choy
    It is a classic dish in Chinese cuisine which is a light and nutritious side dish.
    Check out this recipe
    fry bai cai

    Asian green beans make a good side dish with char siu pork due to their complementary flavors and textural contrast. The vibrant green color of Asian green beans adds visual appeal to the plate when served with char siu pork, making the meal more appetizing.

    18. Asian Style Green Beans
    Crunchy green beans pan fried with garlic and sticky Asian inspired seasonings and sauces. A simple yet incredibly flavorful vegetable side dish ready under 15 minutes!
    Check out this recipe

    Char siu pork can be rich and flavorful, and an Asian salad provides a refreshing and light contrast. The crispness of fresh vegetables and the tangy dressing can balance the meat's richness.

    19. Asian Chopped Cabbage Salad with Sweet Chilli Ginger Dressing
    This quick, easy and deliciously crunchy chopped Asian salad is my go-to when I want something vibrant, healthy and fresh. Lots of crunchy veggies are tossed with a very gingery, sweet chilli jam based dressing you’ll love.
    Check out this recipe

    Stir-fried pea shoots are quick and easy to prepare, making them a convenient side dish to complement char siu pork. Pea shoots have a delicate, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor you can not resist.

    20. Stir Fried Pea Shoots with Garlic
    Try this easy Stir Fried Pea Shoots with Garlic recipe and you'll want it for every occasion! It's perfect for a hit of veggies with no fuss!
    Check out this recipe

    Asian chopped salads are popular for their fresh and crunchy texture, which contrasts nicely with the tenderness of pork. 

    21. Asian Chopped Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
    Asian Chopped Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing – So light & refreshing, yet so satisfying! Plus, it's SO easy to put together and you won't need to cook anything!
    Check out this recipe

    Stir-fry eggplant with tofu is a flavorful and nutritious dish commonly found in various Asian cuisines. It combines tender pieces of eggplant and tofu that are stir-fried together with a savory sauce.

    22. Stir Fry Eggplant Tofu
    This sweet and savory vegetable dish is make you forget you're eating healthy. Indulge guilt-free with this vegetarian recipe!
    Check out this recipe
    eggplant tofu

    Slow cooker balsamic carrots are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich and tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar. 

    23. Slow Cooker Balsamic Carrots
    These Slow Cooker Balsamic Carrots are a hands-off dinner side dish that pack in tons of flavor (with minimal ingredients)!
    Check out this recipe
    Balsamic Carrots

    Soup and pickle dishes

    Chinese chicken and sweetcorn soup is a beloved dish known for its comforting and mild flavors. Chinese chicken and sweetcorn soup is typically smooth and creamy. While char siu pork often has a tender yet slightly chewy texture. The textural contrast adds interest to the meal, making it more enjoyable.

    24. Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup
    Make the best Chinese Chicken and Sweetcorn soup at home with this easy recipe. Enjoy tender shredded chicken, sweet corn kernels, surrounded by egg ribbons in a warming umami broth with just 20 minutes of cooking and prep time.
    Check out this recipe

    Chinese seaweed egg drop soup is a classic Chinese soup. It is popular for its simplicity and delicate flavors.

    25. Easy Chinese Seaweed Egg Drop Soup Recipe (紫菜蛋花汤)
    Chinese seaweed soup, also known as "zi cai dan hua tang"(紫菜蛋花汤) in Mandarin, is a light and nourishing soup commonly found in Chinese cuisine.
    Check out this recipe
    Chinese seaweed soup

    Egg drop soup is also known as "egg flower soup" in Chinese cuisine. It is a simple and popular soup characterized by its silky texture and delicate flavor. It is a staple in many Chinese restaurants and is often enjoyed as a comforting appetizer.

    26. Egg Drop Soup
    Egg Drop soup, also known as egg flower soup, is a simple Chinese classic soup made with very simple ingredients.
    Check out this recipe
    egg drop soup

    Due to its marinade and cooking method, Char siu pork is often rich, savory, and slightly sweet. Pickled daikon radish provides a refreshing contrast with its tangy, slightly sour, and crisp texture. This contrast balances the flavors of the meal wonderfully. If you want to try something new, it is a great way to serve char siu together with pickled daikon radish.

    27. Pickled Daikon Radish
    Learn how to make your own pickled daikon radish at home with this easy recipe. The crunchy Japanese pickles are great with all sorts of Asian dishes!
    Check out this recipe
    pickled daikon

    Leftover Char Siu ideas

    Char siu pork is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, in sandwiches, fried rice, or as a topping for noodles. Furthermore, you can use leftover char siu pork as a filling for pork buns("Char Siu Bao"). They are fluffy steamed buns stuffed with char siu, perfect for a quick, tasty snack.

    What to serve with char siu pork: final thoughts

    You can pair the rich, sweet, and savory flavors of char siu pork with sides that not only balance but enhance its taste. Remember, the key is to balance flavors, textures, and colors to create a harmonious meal. Now you know how to serve with char siu pork, go ahead and experiment with different side dishes. Enjoy every bite of your char siu pork alongside the perfect accompaniments. I am happy to hear from you about your favorite side dish to serve with this classic char siu recipe. Feel free to leave your comments below.:) 

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    Hello there! Welcome to sassychopsticks.com!

    I am Yuan, a US based writer, world traveler, Web developer and photographer behind this website. I was originally born in Kunming, which is the southern part of China, where every seasons is Spring! After attending 4 years of high school in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, I moved to Portsmouth, England where I spend 6 years and obtained my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. I have lived in the United States for almost 2 decades now and currently live in Tennessee.

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