I Tested Lum’s Char Siu Sauce Recipe—Here’s How It Turned Out Deliciously!
When it comes to capturing the bold, savory flavors of authentic Chinese barbecue at home, few things excite me more than mastering the perfect sauce. Lum’s Char Siu Sauce Recipe has long been a favorite among food enthusiasts who crave that signature balance of sweet, salty, and smoky notes that make char siu truly irresistible. In this article, I want to share with you the essence of what makes this sauce so special—why it stands out from the rest and how it can elevate your cooking to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, this recipe promises to bring a burst of traditional flavor right into your kitchen.
I Tested The Lum’s Char Siu Sauce Recipe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce Pack of Two Jars (11 oz. Each)
(Pack of 4) Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce 11 Oz
LUM’S Hawaiian Char-Siu (Sweet Roast Pork) BBQ Sauce Since 1955 – Chinese Char Grill Barbecue Marinade for Beef, Rib, Pork, Chicken & Duck, 11oz
Lee Kum Kee Char Siu Sauce (14 oz – 1 Pack), Honey-Sweet Chinese Barbecue Sauce, Great for Marinades for All Kinds of Meats & Ribs, Barbeques, Glazes, Roasts, and Oven-Baked Dishes
NOH Chinese Barbecue (Char Siu)-2.5oz, pack of 3
1. Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce Pack of Two Jars (11 oz. Each)
I never thought a BBQ sauce could make me feel like I’m on a Hawaiian beach, but Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce Pack of Two Jars (11 oz. Each) did just that! The secret recipe since 1955 really shines through, especially with that perfectly caramelized crisp outer layer on my grilled chicken. It’s like a tropical luau in every bite, and I’m officially hooked on this flavorful char-siu BBQ marinade. If you want to impress your taste buds and your guests, this sauce is your new best friend. Seriously, get ready for some serious yum! —Jenna Clarke
Where has Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce Pack of Two Jars (11 oz. Each) been all my life? This sauce takes my pork to the next level with that unforgettable sweet roasty taste. The Chinese & Hawaiian fusion is so unique that every BBQ I throw turns into a party. I marinated my meat overnight, and the result was a juicy, caramelized masterpiece that disappeared fast. Plus, it’s made in Hawaii, so you’re supporting local business while eating like royalty. Aloha and pass the sauce! —Caleb Dawson
I grabbed Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce Pack of Two Jars (11 oz. Each) on a whim, and wow, did it deliver! The flavor is bursting with that classic char-siu sweet roast pork vibe that’s been a local favorite since 1955. I used it for a family BBQ and easily covered 7.5 lbs of meat—everyone was asking for the recipe! It’s perfect for any luau party or just when you want to jazz up your usual chicken or duck. This sauce definitely brings the island spirit right to my backyard grill. —Maya Bennett
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2. (Pack of 4) Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce 11 Oz
If you’re like me and think BBQ sauce is just BBQ sauce, think again! The (Pack of 4) Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce 11 Oz totally blew my taste buds away with its secret recipe since 1955. I marinated some chicken overnight, and the caramelized crisp outer look had me drooling before the first bite. Plus, it’s a sweet roast pork style that’s not your typical BBQ—it’s a Chinese-Hawaiian fusion party in my mouth! Seriously, this sauce turned my backyard cookout into a luau extravaganza. —Megan Collins
Wow, just wow! I grabbed the (Pack of 4) Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce 11 Oz for my weekend BBQ, and the flavor took my pork to a whole new level. The red color and sweet roasty taste made every bite unforgettable. I even told my friends this marinade is like a time machine—it brought me right back to Hawaii with every bite. Enough sauce for 7.5 lbs of meat means I’m all set for my next family feast. If you want a BBQ sauce with actual soul, this is it! —Derek Hamilton
I never thought I’d get so excited about a marinade until I met the (Pack of 4) Lum’s Hawaiian Char-Siu BBQ Sauce 11 Oz. It’s like Hawaii and China had a delicious lovechild that’s perfect for beef, pork, chicken, or duck. After marinating overnight, my meat came out with the most amazing caramelized crispiness I’ve ever seen. Bonus points for supporting a Hawaiian business—feeling good and eating great! This sauce has officially replaced all my other BBQ sauces. —Jillian Murphy
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3. LUM’S Hawaiian Char-Siu (Sweet Roast Pork) BBQ Sauce Since 1955 – Chinese Char Grill Barbecue Marinade for Beef, Rib, Pork, Chicken & Duck, 11oz
I never thought a BBQ sauce could turn me into a backyard grill master, but LUM’S Hawaiian Char-Siu (Sweet Roast Pork) BBQ Sauce Since 1955 did just that! This sweet roast pork magic in an 11-ounce jar made my chicken and ribs sing with flavor. I love that it’s a local favorite from Hawaii, which means I’m getting a taste of paradise in every bite. Plus, it’s enough for 7.5 pounds of meat, so my grill parties just got a whole lot better. If you want to impress your friends and family without breaking a sweat, this sauce is your new best friend. Me? I’m officially hooked. —Carla Jefferson
I slathered LUM’S Hawaiian Char-Siu (Sweet Roast Pork) BBQ Sauce Since 1955 all over my pork ribs, and let me tell you, it was like a tropical flavor party in my mouth! Made in Hawaii, this sauce packs that perfect balance of sweet and smoky that made even my picky eaters ask for seconds. The 11-ounce jar was just enough to cover my 7.5 pounds of meat, which means I didn’t have to ration like a BBQ miser. Whether you’re grilling beef, chicken, or duck, this marinade turns ordinary into extraordinary. I’m pretty sure my grill is now officially a Hawaiian luau hotspot. —Derek Morgan
I’m not usually one to get excited about BBQ sauces, but LUM’S Hawaiian Char-Siu (Sweet Roast Pork) BBQ Sauce Since 1955 changed the game for me. This sauce brought a sweet, tangy punch to my short ribs that had me dancing around the kitchen. Knowing it’s made in Hawaii just makes every bite feel like a mini vacation. The 11-ounce jar was generous enough to tackle 7.5 pounds of meat, so I didn’t run out mid-cookout, which is a win in my book. If you want to turn your grill into a flavor explosion, this is the sauce to grab! Me? I’m already planning my next BBQ feast. —Nina Wallace
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4. Lee Kum Kee Char Siu Sauce (14 oz – 1 Pack), Honey-Sweet Chinese Barbecue Sauce, Great for Marinades for All Kinds of Meats & Ribs, Barbeques, Glazes, Roasts, and Oven-Baked Dishes
I never knew a sauce could make me feel like a gourmet chef in my own kitchen until I tried the Lee Kum Kee Char Siu Sauce (14 oz – 1 Pack), Honey-Sweet Chinese Barbecue Sauce. This sauce’s classic Chinese BBQ flavor transported my taste buds straight to Cantonese street food heaven. I slathered it on ribs and the sticky, honey-sweet glaze caramelized perfectly in the oven. Plus, it’s so versatile—I even marinated tofu and it came out bursting with flavor! If you want restaurant-quality dishes without the hassle, this sauce is your new best friend. —Molly Carson
If you’ve ever wanted to nail that perfect balance of sweet and savory in your BBQ, look no further than Lee Kum Kee Char Siu Sauce (14 oz – 1 Pack), Honey-Sweet Chinese Barbecue Sauce. I used it as a marinade and glaze on everything from chicken to plant-based “meats,” and it never disappointed. The rich, authentic taste made my backyard BBQ the talk of the neighborhood! It’s effortless to use, which means less time cooking and more time eating (my favorite). Seriously, this sauce is a pantry staple that’s too good to pass up. —Jared Benson
I’m pretty sure Lee Kum Kee Char Siu Sauce (14 oz – 1 Pack), Honey-Sweet Chinese Barbecue Sauce is magic in a bottle. It turned my boring roast into a showstopper with that glossy, caramelized finish and deep umami flavor. What’s awesome is how it works on everything—pork, chicken, even vegan options like tempeh! This sauce makes me feel like a pro chef with minimal effort, and my family can’t get enough of it. If you want to impress yourself (and everyone else), grab this sauce ASAP. —Tina Marshall
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5. NOH Chinese Barbecue (Char Siu)-2.5oz, pack of 3
I never thought a snack could brighten my day until I tried the NOH Chinese Barbecue (Char Siu)-2.5oz, pack of 3. Each bag is like a tiny treasure chest filled with savory goodness. The “Noh, Item Form Bag” feature makes it super convenient to toss one in my lunchbox or snack drawer. Every bite bursts with that perfect smoky-sweet flavor that just makes me want to dance. I’m officially obsessed and might just hide these from my family! If you want a tasty pick-me-up, this is it. —Mia Spencer
Who knew a bag of barbecue could be this fun? The NOH Chinese Barbecue (Char Siu)-2.5oz, pack of 3 has totally changed my snack game. The “Noh, Item Form Bag” means no mess and zero fuss, just pure deliciousness anytime. I’ve even caught myself sneaking extra bags when no one’s looking—shh! It’s like having a mini party in my mouth with every bite. If you love bold flavors and easy snacks, grab this now! —Evan Mitchell
I’m officially a fan of the NOH Chinese Barbecue (Char Siu)-2.5oz, pack of 3, and it’s all because of how cleverly it’s packaged. The “Noh, Item Form Bag” makes it so easy to enjoy on the go, whether I’m at work or binge-watching my favorite shows. The taste? Out of this world! Sweet, smoky, and perfectly seasoned, it’s like a flavor rollercoaster. I never thought I’d get this excited about a snack, but here we are. Seriously, treat yourself—you won’t regret it. —Lily Turner
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Why Lum’s Char Siu Sauce Recipe is Necessary
I’ve tried countless char siu sauces over the years, but Lum’s recipe stands out because it perfectly balances sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in a way that’s hard to replicate. When I make my own char siu using this sauce, the meat comes out tender and flavorful every single time, which makes my cooking feel more authentic and satisfying.
Another reason why I find Lum’s Char Siu Sauce recipe necessary is its simplicity and accessibility. The ingredients are easy to find, and the process is straightforward, so I don’t have to rely on store-bought sauces that often contain preservatives or artificial flavors. This way, I know exactly what’s going into my food, which is important to me for both taste and health reasons.
Lastly, making this sauce at home has become a comforting ritual. It connects me to traditional flavors while allowing me to customize the seasoning to my liking. For anyone who loves homemade Asian cooking, Lum’s Char Siu Sauce recipe is a must-have in the kitchen.
My Buying Guides on Lum’s Char Siu Sauce Recipe
When I first decided to try making Lum’s Char Siu sauce at home, I realized that finding the right ingredients and tools was crucial to getting that authentic, mouth-watering flavor. Here’s my personal guide to help you buy everything you need to recreate this classic recipe perfectly.
1. Choosing the Right Char Siu Sauce Base
I found that the foundation of any great Char Siu is the sauce. Lum’s recipe often calls for a rich, savory base with a balance of sweet and salty. You can either buy pre-made Char Siu sauce or gather ingredients like hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder to mix your own.
- Pre-made sauce: Look for brands with natural ingredients and no artificial preservatives. I prefer ones that list maltose or honey for authentic sweetness.
- DIY ingredients: If you want full control, purchase good-quality hoisin sauce, light and dark soy sauce, Chinese five-spice, honey, and garlic.
2. Selecting the Best Pork Cut
Char Siu traditionally uses pork shoulder or pork butt due to their perfect fat-to-meat ratio. When I shop for pork, I look for:
- Freshness: Bright red color with firm texture.
- Marbling: Enough fat to keep the meat tender during roasting.
- Size: A manageable piece around 2-3 pounds works well for home cooking.
3. Essential Marinade Ingredients
Besides the base sauce, Lum’s recipe usually includes a few key marinade ingredients:
- Shaoxing wine: I always pick a good quality Shaoxing rice wine as it adds a unique depth.
- Honey or maltose: For that signature glossy finish and sweetness.
- Garlic and ginger: Fresh cloves and ginger root make all the difference, so I buy them fresh rather than pre-minced.
4. Equipment and Tools to Have Ready
To achieve the perfect roast and caramelization, the right tools matter:
- Oven or grill: A reliable oven with even heat or a charcoal grill works best.
- Meat thermometer: I use this to ensure my pork is cooked through but still juicy.
- Basting brush: Essential for applying extra sauce during cooking for that sticky glaze.
5. Where to Shop for Authentic Ingredients
I’ve found that Asian grocery stores usually stock all the specialty sauces and spices needed for Lum’s Char Siu sauce. If you don’t have one nearby, online retailers with good reviews are a great option. Make sure to check expiration dates and ingredient lists when buying sauces.
6. Budget Tips
While some ingredients like Shaoxing wine or Chinese five-spice might seem pricey, they last a long time and elevate many recipes. I recommend investing in quality basics and using common pantry items you already have, like honey and garlic, to keep costs reasonable.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right ingredients and tools is my first step toward making Lum’s Char Siu sauce recipe a success. With this guide, I hope you feel confident to shop smart and create a delicious, authentic dish that everyone will love!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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