Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce is a show-stopping dish that combines rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe highlights the succulent beef belly, marinated in a savory sauce, and complemented by a creamy drizzle that takes it to the next level. Whether youβre celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something indulgent, this dish will surely impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The unique marinade infuses the beef with a sweet and savory taste thatβs hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, youβll have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or even as part of a buffet spread.
- Impressive Presentation: The caramelized glaze and creamy sauce make for an eye-catching centerpiece on your dining table.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite spices or serve with various sides to suit your palate.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Having the correct equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Roasting pan: Essential for evenly cooking the beef belly while allowing fat to drain away.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating ingredients and combining sauces without messy spills.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when preparing the creamy sauce.

Ingredients
For the Beef Belly:
- 1.5 lbs boneless beef belly, skin removed
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 star anise
- 2 scallions, chopped
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishes:
- Chopped scallions
- Sesame seeds
How to Make Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Beef Belly
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Add the boneless beef belly.
2. Mix in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, Shaoxing apple vinegar (if using), minced garlic, minced ginger, and star anise.
3. Ensure all surfaces of the beef are coated well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Roast the Beef Belly
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- Remove the marinated beef belly from the refrigerator.
- Place it in a roasting pan and roast for 1.5 β 2 hours.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 145Β°F before removing it from the oven.
Step 3: Glaze the Beef Belly
- Increase oven temperature to broil.
- Brush the roasted beef belly with any remaining marinade.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and slightly charred.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Slice the crispy beef belly into thick slices.
- Arrange on a plate and generously drizzle with creamy sauce.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor.
This Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce is not just a meal; itβs an experience! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with complementary sides or garnishes enhances its deliciousness and presentation.
Classic Plate Setup
- Steamed Rice: A fluffy bed of rice perfectly absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies add crunch and nutrients, balancing the richness of the beef belly.
- Pickled Cucumbers: The acidity cuts through the meatβs fat, providing a refreshing contrast.
Festive Platter
- Charcuterie Style: Arrange sliced beef belly, fresh herbs, and various dips for a visually appealing spread.
- Mini Sliders: Serve small sandwiches with crispy beef belly, creamy sauce, and slaw on soft buns for easy eating at gatherings.
- Rice Paper Rolls: Wrap slices of beef belly in rice paper with fresh herbs and veggies for a fun appetizer.
Garnished Presentation
- Chopped Scallions: Sprinkle chopped scallions on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add an aromatic crunch, enhancing visual appeal.
How to Perfect Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
Achieving the perfect Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce requires attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the beef belly to marinate overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches 145Β°F without overcooking.
- Broil for Crispiness: Broiling at the end adds a satisfying char; just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Experiment with Spices: Adding five-spice powder to the marinade can enhance flavor complexity.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures tender slices that are easy to chew.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve right after assembling to maintain crispiness.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides nutrients and a crunchy contrast to the dish.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Fragrant garlic fried rice complements the rich flavors while adding texture.
- Asian Noodle Salad: A light salad with noodles, vegetables, and sesame dressing offers freshness and balance.
- Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice pairs beautifully with savory beef belly for a delightful mix of flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a sophisticated touch and earthy notes when grilled.
- Miso Soup: This warm soup acts as a comforting starter that prepares your palate for rich flavors ahead.
- Fresh Spring Rolls: Light and refreshing, these rolls filled with vegetables make for a great starter or side dish.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory meat dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce, itβs easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum taste.
- Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking the beef belly without checking its internal temperature can result in undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 145Β°F (63Β°C).
- Overlooking Broiling: Failing to broil the beef belly after roasting means missing out on that desirable caramelized glaze. Donβt skip this step for added texture and flavor.
- Neglecting the Sauce: Rushing the sauce preparation can lead to bland dressing. Take your time to whisk all ingredients properly for a creamy and flavorful sauce.
- Inconsistent Slicing: Cutting the beef belly into uneven slices can affect presentation and eating experience. Use a sharp knife and aim for thick, uniform slices.
- Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like scallions and sesame seeds diminishes visual appeal. These add freshness and crunch, making your dish more enticing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Place beef belly in a baking dish and cover with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover lightly, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
You can substitute boneless chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter version of this recipe while still enjoying great flavor.
How do I achieve extra crispy skin?
To achieve extra crispy skin on your beef belly, make sure to score the top before marinating, which allows more fat to render during cooking.
What should I serve with Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even noodles for a complete meal.
Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The creamy sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce is an irresistible dish that combines savory flavors with creamy textures. Experiment with different sides or garnishes to make it your own. Donβt hesitateβtry this recipe today and impress your family and friends!
Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce
Crispy Char Siu Beef Belly With Creamy Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless beef belly
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 star anise
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped scallions for garnishing
- Sesame seeds for garnishing
Instructions
- Marinate beef belly: In a bowl, mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and star anise. Coat beef thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Roast: Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Place marinated beef in a roasting pan and cook for 1.5 – 2 hours until internal temperature reaches 145Β°F.
- Glaze: Increase oven temperature to broil and brush remaining marinade on beef. Broil for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
- Make creamy sauce: Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve: Slice beef belly and drizzle with creamy sauce; garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 oz (140g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 85mg