Filipino BBQ Pork is a tasty treat that’s sweet, savory, and grilled to perfection! Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, sugar, and spices, each bite is packed with flavor.
This dish reminds me of sunny get-togethers with friends, where the smell of grilling fills the air! Serve it with rice and watch everyone come back for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork shoulder or pork belly: These cuts are perfect for skewers due to their fat content. Fat helps keep the meat juicy while grilling. If you prefer a leaner option, use pork loin or chicken thighs for a lighter twist.
Soy sauce: This provides a salty, umami kick. For a gluten-free alternative, try tamari instead. You can also use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Vinegar: Cane vinegar adds a distinct tang that’s traditional. If you can’t find it, rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute while preserving acidity.
Brown sugar: It gives the skewers a nice caramelization. If you want a healthier option, you might use honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will change a bit.
Banana ketchup: A unique Filipino ingredient, it adds sweetness and depth. If unavailable, you can use regular ketchup with a touch of sugar and a dash of hot sauce to mimic the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate the Pork for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to making your skewers flavorful and tender. Start by mixing all the marinade ingredients together in a large bowl. Make sure the flavors meld together. When adding the pork, ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit in the fridge.
- For best results, marinate overnight. If short on time, aim for at least 2 hours to let the flavors penetrate the meat.
Also, remember to reserve some marinade for basting during grilling. This keeps your skewers moist and adds to the smoky flavor.
Delicious Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup banana ketchup
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 20 minutes prepping the ingredients, plus at least 2 hours for marinating. After that, grilling takes around 10-15 minutes. If you can, marinating overnight makes the flavors even better!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, banana ketchup, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and everything is combined nicely.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the cubed pork to the marinade and stir to coat all the pieces well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, overnight is best for deeper flavor.
3. Grill Time:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. For charcoal grills, wait until the coals are glowing and ready. Remove the pork from the marinade and thread the cubes onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
4. Get Grilling:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they get a nice char all over. If you want extra flavor, baste the pork with any leftover marinade during grilling, but remember to do this safely!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pork is cooked through and has that delicious grilled look, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top before serving to add a fresh touch. Enjoy your tasty Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder and pork belly are traditional choices because of their tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that these leaner cuts may cook faster, so adjust your grilling time accordingly.
Can I Marinate the Pork for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the pork for up to 24 hours! Just be careful not to go much longer than that as the vinegar can start to “cook” the meat, making it mushy. If you’re short on time, even a 2-hour marinade will still yield great flavor.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Keep any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up on a skillet or grill for a few minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them, though be cautious to avoid drying them out.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers?
These skewers are delicious served with steamed rice or even in a wrap with fresh vegetables. For a more authentic touch, pair them with a side of sweet and spicy dipping sauce or a fresh salad to balance the flavors!
