These Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers are juicy and packed with flavor! Marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, they are perfect for grilling up at your next cookout.
Who can resist the smell of BBQ wafting through the air? I know I can’t! Serve them with rice and dive into a delicious meal that’s oh-so-tasty and fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Butt: These cuts are perfect for skewers as they stay juicy during grilling. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use pork loin, but it may dry out faster. I like sticking with shoulder for that rich flavor!
Banana Ketchup: This is a key ingredient that gives the skewers their unique sweetness and tang. If you can’t find it, you can use regular ketchup mixed with a little honey or brown sugar to mimic the flavor.
Calamansi Juice: Calamansi is a Filipino citrus fruit that adds a special tangy taste. If unavailable, fresh lime or lemon juice works well as a substitute, though it may change the flavor slightly. I often use lime for its brightness!
Bamboo Skewers: Soaking them is crucial to prevent burning on the grill. Alternatively, you can use metal skewers, which don’t need soaking. I usually prefer metal for reuse and to avoid any splintering!
How Do I Get My Pork BBQ Skewers Extra Juicy?
Marinating your pork is the secret to juicy skewers. A good marination enhances flavor and texture. Here are some tips for marinating your pork:
- Evenly coat the pork cubes with the marinade and let them soak for a good amount of time—overnight is ideal!
- Mix the marinade well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. This step helps caramelization while grilling.
- Tightly cover the marinating bowl to keep flavors packed in. You can even use a zip-top bag for easy mixing and minimal mess!
Following these steps will ensure your skewers are flavorful and juicy—a dish everyone will love!
Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with fresh lime juice)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for color)
For Skewering:
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a minimum of 4 hours (or ideally overnight) for marinating the pork. You will need around 15 minutes for grilling. Get ready to enjoy a flavorful dish that’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated onion, calamansi juice, fish sauce, black pepper, salt, and paprika until the sugar is fully dissolved. This marinade is where all the magic happens, giving your pork that mouthwatering flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add your pork cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat each piece well. Cover the bowl tightly and pop it into the fridge to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs!
3. Preparing the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help sear the outside of the meat while keeping it juicy inside!
4. Skewering the Meat:
Thread the marinated pork cubes onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Make sure to leave some space between each piece—this will help them cook evenly and get nice grill marks. Don’t overcrowd the skewers!
5. Grill Time:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally and baste with some of the leftover marinade for extra flavor. Look for those delicious charred edges—you’ll know they’re close to being ready!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked through, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back in for the most tender bites. Right before serving, garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers with steamed rice or your favorite sides, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will rave about!
Happy grilling!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for Skewers?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or butt works best for a juicy result, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. Just be cautious, as leaner cuts may dry out more quickly while grilling. Aim for about the same size cubes for even cooking!
How Do I Know When the Pork is Cooked Through?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C). If you cut into a piece, the juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink in the center.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the pork cubes when you’re ready to marinate to keep everything fresh!
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on a grill or stovetop, ensuring they don’t dry out. You can also add a little bit of water or broth to the pan while reheating to keep them moist.
