This Easy Filipino Pork Barbecue is a real treat! It’s made with tender pork marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar for a sweet and smoky flavor.
Throw those skewers on the grill, and your backyard will smell amazing! I love serving it with rice and a little side of pickled veggies to balance the sweetness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork shoulder or butt works best due to its tenderness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, you can use pork tenderloin, though it may be less juicy. You can also try chicken or beef instead if you’re looking to switch things up.
Banana Ketchup: This adds a unique sweetness. If you can’t find it, regular ketchup or homemade barbecue sauce can work as a substitute. I’ve even used a mix of tomato ketchup with a little sugar—just a pinch, to taste!
Pineapple juice: While this is optional, it gives a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. In a pinch, orange juice or apple juice can be a good substitute for a different fruit twist!
Vinegar: White vinegar is great, but cane vinegar lends an authentic flavor. If you’re avoiding vinegar, you can use lemon or lime juice instead for that zing!
How Do I Get The Perfect Grill Marks Without Burning The Pork?
Grilling can be tricky! To achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevent burning, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your grill thoroughly before placing the skewers on. A hot grill helps create a nice sear.
- Avoid moving the pork too much; let it sear for 5-6 minutes before flipping. This helps lock in juices.
- Brush with the marinade while grilling, but only in the last few minutes to prevent burning the sugars.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Let the pork rest for a few minutes after grilling; it allows the juices to redistribute for even more flavor!
Easy Filipino Pork Barbecue
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup banana ketchup (or regular ketchup if not available)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped or grated
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or cane vinegar)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 3 hours for marinating (overnight is best for flavor). Grilling will take around 25-30 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 4 hours, including marination time, to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped onion, vinegar, pineapple juice (if using), ground black pepper, and salt. Stir it all together until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the cubed pork to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated with that delicious mixture! Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 3 hours. For the best results, let it marinate overnight so the flavors really soak in.
3. Grill Time!
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, thread the marinated pork pieces onto your soaked bamboo skewers. Make sure to pack them securely, but not too tightly; you want some space for the heat to circulate.
4. Cooking the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them and baste with any leftover marinade to keep everything moist and flavorful. The pork should be nicely charred and fully cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for just a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve your pork barbecue hot with a side of steaming rice, and consider making a dip from vinegar, chopped red onions, and chili peppers for an added kick!
Enjoy your delicious, sweet-savory Filipino pork barbecue!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or butt is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Alternatively, chicken or beef skewers can provide a nice twist if you prefer those meats.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
You can marinate the pork for as little as 3 hours, but for the best flavor, try to marinate it overnight. Just remember to keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness!
What If I Don’t Have Bamboo Skewers?
No worries! You can use metal skewers, which are reusable and can handle high heat. If you only have wooden skewers, ensure they’re soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Barbecue?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or marinade to keep them moist. Enjoy!
