Oriental Roast Pork

Prep: 240 min Cuisine: Chinese

Oriental Roast Pork features tender, flavorful pork marinated in a savory-sweet soy-based sauce with hints of lemon, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for those who enjoy bold, Asian-inspired flavors, this dish is ideal for special dinners or weekend roasts with family and friends.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp red food coloring
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 or 4 lb pork shoulder

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients, except pork, to prepare the marinade.
  2. Place the pork in a large plastic bag and pour the marinade over it.
  3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  4. Occasionally move the bag around to ensure the marinade covers all portions of the meat.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade. If you prefer a less salty taste, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce. The red food coloring is optional; it mainly enhances the visual appeal. Make sure to marinate the pork shoulder overnight for the best results, ensuring all the flavors penetrate the meat thoroughly, similar to other Chinese recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the roast pork with steamed rice or Fried Rice (Japanese) for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad. For a delightful twist, try serving it alongside Good Sweet And Sour Pork for a flavorful combination that guests will love.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Oriental Roast Pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave the slices on low power for a quick reheating option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Oriental Roast Pork contains roughly 248 calories, with 14g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

248 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.7g 27% DV
Total Fat 9.8g 13% DV
Carbs 26.2g 10% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 2.7g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 330.9mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 19.5mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 25.8mg 2% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Soy

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, you can use other cuts like pork loin or pork tenderloin, but be mindful of cooking times as they may vary. Pork shoulder is preferred for its tenderness and flavor after slow roasting, which is crucial for this dish.

Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

While red food coloring enhances the dish's appearance, it is not essential for flavor. If you prefer a natural look, feel free to omit it without affecting the taste of the marinade.

What can I do with leftover marinade?

Leftover marinade should be cooked before consumption to ensure food safety. You can simmer it in a saucepan until it thickens slightly, then use it as a sauce to drizzle over the sliced pork when serving.

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).

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