Ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) Substitute for Char Siu (BBQ Pork): Exact Ratio
Looking for a char siu (bbq pork) substitute? Ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) works as a direct replacement. Use Use 90% in any recipe that calls for char siu (bbq pork).
Best Substitute
Ham (thick-cut or smoked deli)
Use 90%
Ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) is a workable stand-in for char siu (bbq pork). Use 90% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It can make the dish saltier than the original ingredient, so hold back on extra seasoning until the end. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Tips When Replacing Char Siu (BBQ Pork) in Recipes
Roasted or Smoked Pork Shoulder (sliced) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to char siu (bbq pork) in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Salt, sweetness, and acidity can swing quickly here, so make the swap and then fine-tune to taste. If you need a plant-based option, Char Siu (shredded) is a solid alternative.
What Is Char Siu (BBQ Pork) and Why Substitute It?
Char Siu (BBQ Pork) substitute ideas for dressings, glazes, stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades, with ratio guidance and practical notes for each option. A good place to start is Roasted or Smoked Pork Shoulder
Ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of char siu (bbq pork). For a complete list of char siu (bbq pork) substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full char siu (bbq pork) substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Char Siu (BBQ Pork)?
Roasted or Smoked Pork Shoulder (sliced) instead of Char Siu (BBQ Pork)
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Barbecued Pulled Pork instead of Char Siu (BBQ Pork)
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Char Siu (shredded) instead of Char Siu (BBQ Pork)
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Roasted Duck (sliced) instead of Char Siu (BBQ Pork)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) instead of char siu (bbq pork)?
Yes, you can use ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) as a substitute for char siu (bbq pork). Use Use 90%. Ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) is a workable stand-in for char siu (bbq pork). Use 90% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It can make the dish saltier than the original ingredient, so hold back on extra seasoning until the end. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
How much ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) equals char siu (bbq pork)?
Use Use 90% to replace char siu (bbq pork) with ham (thick-cut or smoked deli).
What is the best substitute for char siu (bbq pork)?
Ham (thick-cut or smoked deli) is a popular substitute for char siu (bbq pork). Use Use 90% for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our char siu (bbq pork) substitute page.