This Filipino BBQ Pork is super tasty and perfect for gatherings! Marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, it brings all the flavorful magic to any meal.
Honestly, the smell while it’s grilling is enough to make anyone hungry! I love serving it with rice and a side of tangy sauce for dipping—delicious! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork shoulder is ideal for a tender and flavorful result. However, if you’re watching your fat intake, pork tenderloin is a good alternative. You can also try chicken for a lighter option, but it may require adjusting cooking times.
Soy Sauce: This is crucial for flavor! If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, consider using low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free alternative, coconut aminos works nicely, though it has a slightly different flavor.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and depth. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup in a pinch, but keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different.
Ketchup: This adds a tangy-sweet balance. If you want to avoid processed ingredients, homemade ketchup or even a mix of tomato paste and a bit of sugar and vinegar could work.
Five-Spice Powder: This adds a unique flavor blend. If you don’t have it, a mix of cinnamon, star anise, and black pepper can provide a homemade touch. But feel free to skip it if you prefer a simpler taste!
How Can I Ensure Juicy and Flavorful Pork Skewers?
Marinating the pork is key for flavor and tenderness. Aim to marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. This gives the meat time to soak up all those delicious flavors!
- Mix all marinade ingredients until the sugar dissolves.
- Coat the pork cubes in the marinade thoroughly, then cover and refrigerate.
- When grilling, ensure the grill is hot but not overly so. This prevents flare-ups and helps achieve a nice char without burning.
- To avoid drying out, be sure to turn the skewers regularly during grilling.
Letting the skewers rest after grilling helps redistribute the juices, making every bite juicy and full of flavor!
How to Make Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (cane or white vinegar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional for additional flavor)
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Oil for grilling (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time to make the marinade and prepare the meat, plus at least 2 hours (or overnight) to marinate the pork for better flavor. Grilling takes about 10–15 minutes. So, total time, including marinating, is around 2 hours and 30 minutes if marinated for 2 hours, or about 24 hours if marinated overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, minced garlic, ground black pepper, salt, and optional five-spice powder. Mix everything together until the sugar is dissolved. It’s a flavorful mix that’ll make your pork delicious!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork cubes to the marinade, making sure they’re all well-coated. Cover the bowl or transfer the mixture to a resealable plastic bag. Pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to let all those yummy flavors soak in—trust me, it’s worth it!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the charcoal is ashy to ensure even cooking. This will help get those nice grill marks!
4. Prepare the Skewers:
Take your soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated pork pieces onto them, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and makes flipping them easier.
5. Grill the Skewers:
If you want, lightly brush some oil on the grill or on the skewers to keep them from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10–15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’re aiming for a beautiful char and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. For an extra boost of flavor, you can brush them with some of the leftover marinade during the last few minutes of grilling. Serve your BBQ pork skewers hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions, alongside your favorite rice or side dishes. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork belly are traditional, you can use pork tenderloin or chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time, as these cuts may cook faster than shoulder or belly.
What If I Don’t Have Bamboo Skewers?
No problem! You can use metal skewers instead, which eliminate the need for soaking. If you don’t have skewers at all, consider grilling the pork pieces directly on the grill or in a grill basket for easy cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back on a grill or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead! Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready, add the pork and let it marinate. This can enhance the flavors even more!
