This Filipino BBQ Pork is a real treat! It’s made with tender pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilled to juicy perfection. The smoky flavor makes it even more delicious!
When I make this dish, the smell of grilling pork fills the air, and my friends can’t wait to taste it. I love serving it with rice and a side of spicy vinegar—it’s the perfect combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for skewers because it’s tender and flavorful. If you can’t find pork shoulder, try using pork belly or tenderloin. Both will work well, but remember that tenderloin is leaner and may cook faster.
Soy Sauce: It adds that essential umami flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. Coconut aminos is another great soy sauce alternative with a slightly sweeter profile.
Brown Sugar & Honey: These sweeteners balance the savory elements. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave syrup if you prefer a different sweetness or need a vegan option.
Pineapple Juice: This ingredient adds a nice tropical twist. If you don’t have it, an equal amount of orange juice or apple juice can work well, too.
Cilantro: A bright garnish that complements the skewers perfectly. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or green onions instead for a fresh touch.
How Do I Properly Marinate the Pork for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into the pork. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all your marinade ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
- Add the pork cubes, making sure they are completely coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful!
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let it marinate overnight. This allows the ingredients to penetrate the meat fully.
Don’t skip this step! The longer the pork sits in the marinade, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
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 honey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional, for marinade)
For the Skewers:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Skewers (bamboo or metal)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a marinating time of at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). Grilling will take around 10-15 minutes. In total, you should plan for about 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare these tasty skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, salt, and vegetable oil. Stir everything well to combine and create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, letting it marinate overnight will really enhance the flavor!
3. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready when you’re done marinating the pork.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated pork cubes out of the fridge. Thread the pork pieces onto the skewers, leaving a tiny bit of space between each piece. This will help them cook evenly!
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place your skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally so all sides get that nice, caramelized glaze. You want the pork to be fully cooked, so check that it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
7. Brush for Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you want, you can brush the skewers with extra marinade during the last few minutes of grilling to add even more flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them cool for just a moment. Serve them warm, garnished with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can also use pork belly, loin, or even tenderloin. Just keep in mind that 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 for even more flavor! However, be cautious not to exceed this time too much, as the salt in the soy sauce can start to break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave for a quick option. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps!
Can I Make a Non-Soy Sauce Marinade?
Yes! For a soy-free version, you can use coconut aminos or a homemade marinade with balsamic vinegar and a bit of brown sugar. Just make sure to adjust the salt levels, as soy sauce is quite salty!
