This Easy Filipino BBQ Pork recipe is all about sweet, sticky goodness! With a mix of soy sauce, sugar, and garlic, your kitchen will smell amazing while this pork marinates.
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just marinate the pork, grill it up, and enjoy the flavor explosion! I love serving it with rice, and let’s face it, who can resist that caramelized edge? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for BBQ because it has enough fat to keep it juicy. If you can’t find pork shoulder, pork belly or tenderloin can work too, but they’ll cook differently. I prefer shoulder for that tender bite.
Banana Ketchup: A Filipino staple, it adds sweetness and a unique flavor. If unavailable, swap it for regular ketchup with a bit of sugar. I’ve used this when in a pinch, and it still tastes great!
Calamansi Juice: This brings a lovely tang to the marinade. If you don’t have calamansi, fresh lemon or lime juice is a fine substitution. I often go for lemon when I run out of calamansi.
How Do I Get Perfect Char on My BBQ Pork Skewers?
Amazing char adds flavor! The trick is medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the sugars to caramelize. Here’s how to achieve that perfect char:
- Preheat your grill properly. It should be hot enough to sizzle when the meat hits it.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill! Give each skewer space for even cooking.
- Baste frequently with leftover marinade. It keeps your pork juicy while adding layers of flavor.
- Keep an eye on it! Rotate the skewers every few minutes to avoid burning.
With these tips, your BBQ pork will be deliciously charred and perfect for sharing with family and friends! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into 1-inch thick strips
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup (or substitute with regular ketchup and 1 tbsp sugar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lemon or lime juice)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and the pork, followed by a marinating time of at least 3 hours (or overnight for best flavor). Grilling will take an additional 10-15 minutes, making the total time around 3 hours and 30 minutes, including marinating. Not too long for such yummy BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, calamansi juice, and ground black pepper. Stir everything well until the sugar completely dissolves. The flavors are going to blend so nicely!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork strips into the marinade and toss them around to make sure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 3 hours. If you have time, marinating overnight will take the flavor to the next level!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. While that’s heating up, thread the marinated pork strips onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers—give each piece some space for even cooking!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Baste them with any leftover marinade to keep them juicy and add extra flavor. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning; feel free to adjust the heat as necessary. You want a nice char without going too far!
5. Rest & Garnish:
Once they’re nice and charred, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a couple of minutes to lock in those flavorful juices. Just before serving, garnish with chopped green onions for some extra color and crunch!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your delicious BBQ pork hot alongside some steamed rice. The sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors will surely impress everyone!
Enjoy your sweet, tangy, and smoky Filipino BBQ Pork!
FAQ for Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Recipe
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also try pork belly or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially with leaner cuts!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat it gently on the grill or in a skillet to maintain its juiciness.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Sure! You can marinate the pork a day ahead, letting those flavors infuse overnight. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before grilling for even cooking. It’s a time saver for busy days!
What Should I Serve with Filipino BBQ Pork?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for some extra crunch. It makes for a delicious meal any way you slice it!
