Filipino BBQ Pork is a tasty dish that brings a sweet and smoky flavor to every bite. Marinated with a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sugar, it’s grilled to perfection!
Sizzling on the grill, the smoky aroma always gets my mouth watering. I love serving it with rice and a side of vinegar sauce for dipping. Nothing beats a family BBQ moment! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Pork Belly: Both cuts work well, but I lean toward pork shoulder for its tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs can be a good substitute, although the flavor may differ.
Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. For a sweet twist, consider coconut aminos as a substitute.
Brown Sugar: You can swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness. Just keep in mind that honey might alter the flavor slightly but adds a nice caramelization!
Ketchup: If you’re looking to avoid processed condiments, try using pureed tomatoes or a homemade tomato paste, which will maintain the consistency without added sugars.
Vinegar: Cane vinegar is the traditional choice, but regular white or apple cider vinegar will also work well. Use whichever you have on hand!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic creates the best flavor. If you must use powdered garlic, go for half a teaspoon, but remember the fresh stuff packs a stronger punch!
How Do I Properly Marinade and Grill the Pork for Optimal Flavor?
The marinade is key to infusing flavor into the pork, so here’s how to get it right!
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the pork cubes, ensuring each piece is coated. The longer you let it marinate, the more flavor you’ll get—overnight is best!
- Preheat your grill to medium heat and, if using banana leaves, line the grill for extra flavor and non-stick cooking.
- Thread the pork onto soaked bamboo skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning often. Applying leftover marinade during the last few minutes enhances the flavor and adds a nice glaze.
- Check the temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C) for safety. Let them rest briefly before serving.
Following these steps will ensure your skewers are bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked!
How to Make Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs pork shoulder (or pork belly), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 5-6 banana leaves (optional, for grilling)
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 2 hours for marinating. Once marinated, the grilling process takes about 10-15 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate the pork overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until the sugar is dissolved. This will create a tasty marinade for your pork!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the cubed pork to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If you can wait until the next day, that’s even better for maximum flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. If you’re using banana leaves (which adds a nice flavor), lay them on the grill grates to prevent the pork from sticking.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated pork out of the fridge. Thread the cubes of pork onto your soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a tiny space between each piece to help them cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the heated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to get a nice caramelization and to ensure they are fully cooked. The internal temperature should hit at least 145°F (63°C).
6. Add Extra Flavor:
During the last few minutes of grilling, brush any leftover marinade over the skewers. This adds even more flavor and gives them a lovely shine!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done cooking, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They’re awesome served with steamed rice or as part of a party platter!
Enjoy your delicious Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork belly are commonly used, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. Just be aware that leaner cuts like tenderloin may require shorter cooking times to prevent drying out.
How Can I Make These Skewers Spicier?
If you prefer some heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of chili paste or minced red chili to the marinade. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on the skewers before grilling to enhance the spiciness!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve their texture.
Can I Prepare These Skewers in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the pork up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the skewers a few hours before grilling; just store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
