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Crispy Brown Butter Char Siu Pork with Parmesan Crust

crispy brown butter char siu pork - featured image

A flavorful and crispy pork dish featuring a nutty brown butter base and a savory parmesan crust, combined with sweet and smoky char siu spices. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed and cut into 1-inch slices
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine or dry sherry
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, minced garlic, rice wine, and ground white pepper in a medium bowl. Set aside.
  2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight.
  3. Make the brown butter by melting unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling gently until golden brown and nutty in aroma (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Mix the parmesan crust by combining grated parmesan with a pinch of salt and pepper in a shallow bowl. Set aside.
  5. Remove pork from marinade and discard marinade. Brush each piece lightly with brown butter, then press both sides into the parmesan mixture to form a crust.
  6. Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of oil until shimmering hot.
  7. Sear pork slices for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crusty, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  8. Transfer pork to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly and serving.

Notes

Press parmesan firmly onto pork slices to prevent crust from falling off. If crust browns too quickly, reduce heat or finish in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving leftovers to preserve crust crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: char siu pork, brown butter, parmesan crust, crispy pork, easy pork recipe, Chinese five-spice, savory pork, quick dinner