Just like your favorite takeout joint, this Chinese BBQ beef has a juicy inside with a sweet, caramelized crust on the outside! Full of flavor and easy to make in the oven or on the grill, it will remind you of your favorite Char Siu. This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or impressing guests.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Meat
- For the Marinade
- For Garnish
- How to Make Chinese BBQ beef
- Step 1: Cut the Beef
- Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
- Step 4: Arrange Beef on Baking Sheet
- Step 5: Bake the Beef
- Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)
- Step 7: Serve
- How to Serve Chinese BBQ beef
- With Sticky Rice
- Over Noodles
- With Fresh Vegetables
- In Lettuce Wraps
- With Dipping Sauces
- How to Perfect Chinese BBQ beef
- Best Side Dishes for Chinese BBQ beef
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Chinese BBQ beef
- Reheating Chinese BBQ beef
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Chinese BBQ beef?
- How do I make Chinese BBQ beef?
- Can I use another type of meat?
- How do I serve Chinese BBQ beef?
- What are some sides that go with Chinese BBQ beef?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up.
- Flavorful: The combination of hoisin and soy sauce creates a rich taste that pairs wonderfully with rice.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, in sandwiches, or even in wraps for lunch.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch that can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later meals.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and garnishes make it visually appealing for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything at hand saves time and enhances your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking, ensuring consistent results.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to maximize flavor absorption.
- Whisk: Helps mix sauces smoothly without lumps, giving you a better marinade.

Ingredients
For the Meat
- 2 lb boneless beef shoulder or butt
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For Garnish
- 3 green onions (sliced)
How to Make Chinese BBQ beef
Step 1: Cut the Beef
Cut the beef into cubed pieces (about 1 inch by 1 inch). The cubes cook faster and absorb the marinade more evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Hoisin sauce
2. Soy sauce
3. Oyster sauce
4. Minced garlic
5. Crushed red pepper flakes
6. Garlic powder
7. Black pepper
Add the cubed beef to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover with saran wrap or foil and marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Step 4: Arrange Beef on Baking Sheet
Spread meat and marinade onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Evenly sprinkle granulated sugar over the top; this will help create a delicious crust while cooking.
Step 5: Bake the Beef
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)
For a crispy exterior, switch your oven to broil after baking. Broil each side of the beef for an additional 3-4 minutes until charred.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish your Chinese BBQ beef with sliced green onions and serve it alongside sticky rice for a complete meal!
How to Serve Chinese BBQ beef
Chinese BBQ beef is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Sticky Rice
- Sticky rice is a classic pairing that complements the sweet and savory flavors of the beef, making each bite satisfying.
Over Noodles
- Serve the beef over a bed of steamed or stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal that absorbs all the delicious juices.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Fresh vegetables like bok choy or snap peas add a crisp contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the BBQ beef.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves as wraps, adding fresh herbs and crunchy veggies for a refreshing and interactive dining experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces on the side, such as soy sauce or chili sauce, allowing guests to customize their flavors.
How to Perfect Chinese BBQ beef
To make sure your Chinese BBQ beef turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the right cut: Opt for boneless beef shoulder or butt for tenderness and flavor.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the beef to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and juiciness.
- Use sugar wisely: Sprinkling sugar on top before baking creates that desirable caramelized crust.
- Watch the cooking time: Keep an eye on the internal temperature; aim for 145°F for optimal doneness.
- Broil for crispiness: Finish with a quick broil to achieve that perfect charred texture on the outside.
- Garnish just before serving: Adding green onions right before serving keeps them fresh and vibrant.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese BBQ beef
When planning your meal centered around Chinese BBQ beef, consider these delightful side dishes that will enhance your dining experience.
- Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and soy sauce makes it an excellent companion.
- Steamed Broccoli: This simple side adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the beef.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with sesame oil and vinegar brings a cool crunch to your plate.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or chicken provide a delightful crunch.
- Scallion Pancakes: These flaky pancakes pair well with the savory flavor of BBQ beef.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Miso Soup: Light and comforting miso soup can serve as a warm starter before enjoying your main dish.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies add brightness and acidity to balance out rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chinese BBQ beef, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish significantly.
- Bold Marinade Timing: Skipping the marinating step or not allowing enough time will lead to less flavorful beef. Aim for at least 8 hours or overnight for the best taste.
- Bold Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to 375°F as instructed.
- Bold Not Using Sugar: Forgetting to sprinkle sugar on top can result in a less caramelized crust. Ensure you evenly distribute sugar before baking.
- Bold Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Bold Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping green onion garnishes may make your dish look less appealing. Add sliced green onions just before serving for color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chinese BBQ beef in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chinese BBQ beef
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Properly stored, it can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Chinese BBQ beef
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chinese BBQ beef.
What is Chinese BBQ beef?
Chinese BBQ beef refers to marinated and roasted beef that has a sweet and savory flavor profile, similar to Char Siu.
How do I make Chinese BBQ beef?
To make Chinese BBQ beef, marinate cubed beef shoulder in hoisin sauce and other seasonings, then bake or grill until cooked through.
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey if you prefer lighter options while still enjoying the same flavor profile.
How do I serve Chinese BBQ beef?
It pairs well with sticky rice and steamed vegetables; garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness.
What are some sides that go with Chinese BBQ beef?
Consider serving with fried rice, bok choy, or Asian-style coleslaw for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese BBQ beef recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or adjusting sweetness levels. Try this dish today to enjoy a delightful blend of flavors that will impress family and friends!
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Chinese BBQ Beef
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of homemade Chinese BBQ beef, reminiscent of your favorite takeout! This dish features tender beef shoulder marinated in a luscious blend of hoisin and soy sauce, then baked to perfection for a sweet, caramelized crust. Whether served over sticky rice, nestled in wraps, or enjoyed with fresh vegetables, it’s ideal for family dinners or casual entertaining. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can impress your guests effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless beef shoulder or butt
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons plant-based oyster sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, plant-based oyster sauce, minced garlic, and sugar. Add cubed beef and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the marinated beef on the baking sheet and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





