This Easy Filipino BBQ Pork is sweet, smoky, and oh-so-tasty! Made with tender pork marinated in a yummy blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
Nothing beats the smell of this pork on the grill! I love pairing it with some rice and a bit of vinegar sauce for that perfect balance. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Butt: These cuts are great because they have enough fat to keep the meat juicy when grilling. If you’re looking for leaner options, use pork loin, but it might be a bit drier.
Banana Ketchup: This is a key flavor in Filipino BBQ. If you can’t find it, mix regular ketchup with a bit of brown sugar for sweetness. I’ve tried it and it still gives a tasty result!
Pineapple Juice: This adds a nice sweetness and helps tenderize the meat. If you’re out, orange juice can work in a pinch, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Garlic and Onion: Both bring a lot of flavor to the marinade. Fresh is best, but you can also use garlic powder and onion powder if you’re in a hurry.
How Do I Get Juicy, Well-Grilled Pork Skewers?
To get the best results with these pork skewers, marinating is crucial. It not only flavors the pork but also keeps it moist while cooking. Here’s how to make sure your skewers are juicy:
- Marinate the pork for at least 3 hours, but overnight is even better! This allows the flavors to soak in.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat — too hot can burn the outside before the inside cooks properly.
- Turn the skewers regularly while grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Baste with extra marinade if you like, just remember to use a separate batch to avoid contamination.
Using these tips will help you achieve that signature sweet and smoky flavor that everyone loves! Enjoy! 🌟
Easy Filipino BBQ Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Marinade:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, thinly sliced or cut into strips
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup (or substitute with regular ketchup mixed with a little sugar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For Grilling:
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and at least 3 hours to marinate the pork. Cooking will take another 15 minutes. So, plan on about 3 hours and 45 minutes total, with most of it just letting the flavors develop!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, ground black pepper, and vegetable oil. Stir the mixture well until the sugar is dissolved, and everything is nicely combined.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork strips to the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Ideally, let it marinate for at least 3 hours, but overnight is even better for soaking in all that flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. This helps to ensure that the pork cooks evenly and gets that nice smoky flavor.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take your soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated pork strips onto them. Be sure not to pack the meat too tightly, so it can cook well on all sides.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. You can baste them with any leftover marinade (just be sure it’s from the same batch!) to keep the meat juicy and flavorful. Look for a nice, slightly charred finish!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a serving plate. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve hot alongside steamed rice and a little vinegar dipping sauce for that perfect tangy contrast.
Enjoy your delicious Filipino BBQ Pork skewers with their sweet and smoky glaze! Perfect for sharing with family and friends. 🍢
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork?
Yes, you can! While pork shoulder or butt is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin or even chicken if you prefer. Just remember that leaner cuts may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 3 hours, but up to 24 hours is even better! Just be careful not to marinate for too long, as the acid in the marinade could break down the meat too much and affect the texture.
Can I Cook These Skewers in the Oven?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake these skewers in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and slightly caramelized.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a microwave or warm them in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. Enjoy them as is or in a tasty stir-fry or salad!
