Chasu(Chinese Roast Pork Loin)
Chinese Roast Pork Loin features tender pork marinated in a savory soy-based sauce, then oven-baked to perfection with a glossy, flavorful glaze—ideal for gatherings or a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut pork loin roast into 1 1/2 x 1 1/2-inch strips.
- Combine soy sauce, sugar, molasses, catsup, and chopped garlic to make the marinade.
- Marinate the pork strips in the sauce for 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the marinated pork in the oven for about 1 hour, basting frequently.
- Let the pork stand for a few minutes before slicing into smaller pieces.
- Arrange the sliced pork on a plate attractively.
- Pour a little more sauce over the sliced pork before serving.
- Serve with hot mustard, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade or a pinch of five-spice powder for an authentic twist. If you're out of Kikkoman soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos can be good substitutes. When marinating, ensure the pork is well-coated and consider marinating overnight for deeper flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Chinese recipes that feature rice or noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chasu with steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. It also goes well with egg rolls for a delightful combination. Drizzle with extra sauce before serving, and consider offering hot mustard or pickled vegetables on the side for a flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chasu(Chinese Roast Pork Loin) contains roughly 490 calories, with 13g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (188% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2098mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, while pork loin is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use pork shoulder for a richer flavor. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly due to differences in fat content.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the marinade?
To adjust the sweetness, simply increase or decrease the amount of sugar to your taste. You can also substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile, keeping in mind that these will add their own unique sweetness.
Is it possible to grill the pork instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling the marinated pork strips can add a wonderful smoky flavor. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time closely, as grilling may require less time than baking. Baste with extra marinade for added moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).