Flambéed Char Siu – Spectacular Pork Belly with Rose Liquor
火焰叉燒
Pork belly in sweet soy sauce, flambéed at the table with rose liquor – an experience for the eyes, nose, and palate.
Tender pork belly in a syrupy soy sauce, doused in rose liquor and flambéed right at the table. Flames dance across the meat, caramelizing the surface and unleashing an intense, unforgettable aroma. This modern spectacle is rooted in one of the most traditional dishes of Chinese cuisine – Char Siu. But what makes this exciting reinterpretation so special?
Char Siu – A Cantonese Classic
Char Siu (叉燒) literally means “fork-roasted.” It's marinated pork, traditionally from the shoulder or belly, prepared in a sweet and savory sauce made with honey, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, five-spice powder, and garlic. Its distinctive deep red color often comes from fermented bean sauce or coloring spices. Char Siu is usually grilled whole and then sliced thin – served hot or cold, with rice or in steamed buns.
Flambéing with Rose Liquor – A Modern Show
With flambéed Char Siu, the cooked pork is drizzled with rose liquor and flambéed directly at the table. This not only creates a dramatic presentation but also elevates the flavor: the flames caramelize the sweet soy glaze while the floral rose liquor leaves a delicate aroma. Most of the alcohol burns off, leaving behind only elegance and warmth.
The Sauce – Sweet, Thick, and Aromatic
This isn’t just pork in soy sauce – it’s bathed in a carefully reduced, syrup-like glaze that’s deeply sweet, slightly salty, and rich in umami. The heat from the flambéing gives it a glazed, slightly smoky finish. The sauce is the soul of the dish and pairs perfectly with the fatty, tender pork belly.

Tender pork belly in sweet soy sauce, flambéed with blue and orange flames – Char Siu served in a stylish Asian setting.
Flavor Meets Spectacle – Why This Dish Delights
Flambéed Char Siu is defined by the fusion of classic flavor and modern presentation. The blue and orange flames turn the dish into a visual performance without compromising its roots. For guests, it’s a memorable moment – a touch of haute cuisine in the world of Chinese comfort food. Perfect as a signature dish in upscale Asian restaurants or for special occasions.
Conclusion
Flambéed Char Siu combines tradition with innovation. The sweet-savory pork belly in soy glaze meets the elegant touch of rose liquor – creating a culinary experience that transcends taste. For anyone who loves Asian cuisine and is open to new delights, this dish is a must-try. A dramatic highlight that leaves a lasting impression.