This Filipino BBQ Pork is a tasty treat! Marinated in a mix of sweet and savory flavors, it’s grilled to perfection for a fun charred finish. It’s perfect for gatherings and family cookouts!
I love the smell of this BBQ as it cooks; it always brings smiles to faces. Serve it with rice and a cold drink, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect because it stays juicy while grilling. If you can’t find pork shoulder, you can use pork belly or tenderloin; just note that they may yield slightly different textures.
Soy Sauce: A key flavor in this dish. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. You can also try coconut aminos for a lower sodium option.
Cane Vinegar: This adds a unique tanginess. If you don’t have it, white vinegar works but will change the flavor a bit. Apple cider vinegar is another good choice and is a bit milder.
Brown Sugar: This gives your skewers that nice caramelization. If you’re out, you can swap it with white sugar or honey in a pinch; just keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly.
Chili Flakes: They’re optional but add a nice kick! If you want more heat, try fresh chopped chili or sriracha. For a milder version, just leave them out.
How Can I Ensure the Pork is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
The key here is the marinating process. Letting the pork soak in the marinade not only adds flavor but also helps with tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your marinade thoroughly to ensure the sugar dissolves and flavors blend.
- Coat the pork cubes in the marinade well, and cover the bowl tightly before refrigerating.
- For best results, marinate the pork overnight but two hours is the minimum.
- Don’t skip soaking the bamboo skewers! This prevents them from burning on the grill.
How to Make Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup cane vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and pork, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (or preferably overnight). You’ll need around 10-15 minutes to grill the skewers, so plan for a total of about 2 hours and 30 minutes, mainly for marinating and cooking time. A delicious meal well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, cane vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, black pepper, salt, and chili flakes (if you like a little heat). Whisk everything together until the sugar has dissolved and the marinade is mixed nicely.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the 1-inch cubes of pork shoulder to the marinade. Make sure to coat each piece well with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. If you can, let it marinate overnight to enhance the flavor.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that the pork will cook evenly and develop a nice caramelized finish.
4. Prepare the Skewers:
Take your soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated pork cubes onto them. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece. This helps them cook more evenly on the grill!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them frequently so they can brown nicely on all sides. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the skewers are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if you like, and serve with steamed rice or a side of pickled vegetables. Enjoy your tasty Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While pork shoulder is great for skewers due to its tenderness and fat content, other cuts like pork loin or tenderloin can also work. Just make sure to adjust cooking times since leaner cuts may cook faster than pork shoulder.
Is There a Substitute for Cane Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you can’t find cane vinegar, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar are good alternatives. They will provide a similar acidity to balance the sweetness of the marinade. Just use the same amount as indicated in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Skewers?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave until heated through.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, simply add the pork to the marinade and proceed with the recipe as usual!
