Filipino BBQ Pork is a yummy dish made with tender pieces of marinated pork, grilled to perfection. It’s sweet, savory, and super tasty, making it a favorite at parties!
The smell of it cooking on the grill is just heavenly! I love serving it with rice and a side of dipping sauce. Trust me, it disappears fast—everyone wants seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Belly: Both cuts are great; I love using pork belly for its rich flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could substitute with chicken thighs or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Soy Sauce: This is a key flavor booster. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead. If you want less sodium, low-sodium soy sauce works well, too.
Vinegar: Cane vinegar adds an authentic touch, but white vinegar is a good substitute. Apple cider vinegar can also provide a slightly different flavor profile.
Brown Sugar and Honey: This combination gives the skewers that signature glaze. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, try coconut sugar or agave nectar as substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds punch! While you can use garlic powder in a pinch, fresh really enhances the flavor of the marinade.
How Do You Ensure Your Pork Skewers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy and flavorful skewers lies in marinating and cooking technique. First, let the pork marinate for at least 3 hours or even better, overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- When grilling, don’t overcrowd the skewers; they need space for even cooking.
- Keep it at medium-high heat; too hot can burn the marinade before the insides cook.
- Turn the skewers frequently to achieve that nice char and avoid drying out the meat.
Letting them rest after grilling is also vital; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping your skewers moist. Enjoy your BBQ adventure!
How to Make Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar or white vinegar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for color)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and assemble the skewers, plus at least 3 hours for marinating (preferably overnight). The grilling will take around 10 minutes. So, total time includes prep, marinating, and cooking time—perfect for a delicious, flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, black pepper, ground coriander, paprika (if you like a little color), and vegetable oil. Stir the mixture well until everything is well combined and the sugar is mostly dissolved. This is your sweet and savory marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Next, add the pork cubes to the bowl, making sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the pork marinate for at least 3 hours, but if you have the time, letting it sit overnight will give it even more flavor.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take those soaked bamboo skewers and start threading the marinated pork onto them. Pack the pieces closely together but not too tightly, so they cook evenly.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on it. Grill the pork for about 8-10 minutes, turning them frequently to get a nice char and ensure they are cooked through. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Let Them Rest and Serve:
When the skewers are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the meat juicy. Serve your BBQ pork skewers with a side of rice, some dipping sauce, or your favorite grilled veggies. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Filipino cuisine!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use other cuts of pork like tenderloin or pork ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary—leaner cuts like tenderloin will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Cane Vinegar?
If you can’t find cane vinegar, white vinegar works well as a substitute. For a slightly different flavor, you can also use apple cider vinegar, though it will impart a bit of sweetness to the marinade.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in the oven at a low temperature for the best results without drying them out.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time! Just mix all the marinade ingredients and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready, simply add the pork and marinate as usual!
