This Easy Filipino BBQ Pork is a tasty treat you can grill up for friends and family. With juicy pork, a sweet and tangy marinade, it’s sure to please everyone at the cookout!
Grilling this BBQ pork is super fun! I like to serve it with rice and a cold drink. Trust me, the smell alone will make your neighbors jealous! ðŸŒðŸ”¥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork shoulder or pork butt are great choices for this recipe because they stay juicy when grilled. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use pork loin, although it might be a bit drier.
Banana Ketchup: This unique ingredient gives a distinct sweetness and flavor to Filipino BBQ. If you can’t find it, mix regular ketchup with a bit of sugar to mimic its sweetness.
Citrus Juice: Calamansi juice adds a real zing to the marinade. If it’s hard to find, lemon or lime juice will work just as well, giving a nice balance of acidity.
Bamboo Skewers: Soaking them in water prevents them from burning on the grill. If you’re short on skewers, you can grill the pork directly on the grill grates. Just make sure to watch them closely!
How Do You Marinate Pork for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating pork is key to infusing it with flavor. Here’s how to make it effective:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl before adding the pork. This ensures everything is well combined.
- Coat each piece of pork thoroughly, so every bite is flavorful.
- For the best results, let the pork marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better.
- Keep the marinated pork in a covered container or zip bag in the fridge. This keeps it fresh and safe while soaking in those flavors!
Remember, the longer you marinate, the tastier it gets! Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, or the acid might change the pork’s texture.
Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Recipe for Grilling
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, thinly sliced or cut into strips
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup (or regular ketchup mixed with a bit of sugar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon calamansi juice (or substitute with lemon or lime juice)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires a marinating time of at least 3 hours (or overnight for better flavor). Grilling takes about 10-15 minutes. So, you could be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, calamansi juice, ground black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well blended. This marinade is the secret to your BBQ’s flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the sliced pork to the marinade, making sure each piece is completely coated. This ensures all the flavors penetrate the meat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 3 hours or if you can, overnight—this is when the magic happens!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. This will give the pork a beautiful sear.
4. Thread the Pork onto Skewers:
Take the marinated pork strips and thread them onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Be sure to leave a bit of space between each piece so they cook evenly. Your skewers are now ready for the grill!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes on each side, occasionally basting with any leftover marinade. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and slightly charred. The caramelized glaze is a beautiful sight!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once grilled, take them off the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top for a fresh touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious BBQ pork skewers hot with a side of steamed rice. Trust me, everyone will love it and keep coming back for more!
This recipe beautifully highlights Filipino flavors with a sweet, savory taste profile and a perfect caramelized finish. Enjoy your homemade BBQ treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt is recommended for its tenderness, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. Just remember that leaner cuts may cook faster, so adjust the grilling time accordingly to prevent drying out.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 3 hours; however, marinating it overnight is ideal. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid from the marinade can affect the meat’s texture.
What Can I Do with Leftover Marinade?
If you’re concerned about food safety, it’s best to discard leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat. However, you can reserve a portion of the marinade before adding the pork to use for basting while grilling, or boil it for a few minutes to use as a sauce to drizzle over your cooked pork.
How Should I Store Leftover BBQ Pork Skewers?
Store any leftover grilled pork skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or on a pan over low heat until warmed through. You can also use them in salads or wraps for a tasty meal prep option!
