Air Fryer Char Siu
Ready in about 40 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
Sticky, lacquered Chinese char siu develops caramelised, slightly charred edges beautifully in the air fryer. Strips of pork shoulder soak up a sweet-savoury glaze then bronze under the fierce circulating heat.
Ingredients
- 700 g pork shoulder, cut into long strips
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
- 1 tsp Chinese five spice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp red food colouring (optional)
Method
- 1Combine hoisin, half the honey, soy, wine, five spice and garlic to make a marinade.
- 2Coat the pork strips and marinate at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C/375°F.
- 4Cook the strips 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, and brushing with the remaining honey in the last 5 minutes.
- 5Cook until caramelised at the edges and the pork reaches 63°C/145°F.
- 6Rest 5 minutes, then slice across the grain and serve with rice.
Tips for the best results
- Brush the honey glaze on only near the end so it caramelises without burning.
- Choose a fattier shoulder cut for the juiciest, most authentic char siu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer char siu?+
Cook at 190°C / 375°F for 18-22 min, flip halfway.
What can I use instead of Shaoxing wine?+
Dry sherry is the closest substitute, or use extra soy with a splash of rice vinegar.