These Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers are full of sweet and smoky flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar, they’re easy to love.
Grilling these skewers is a blast, and the smell alone makes everyone eager for a taste! I like to serve them with a side of rice for a fun meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for grilling because of its balance of meat and fat, which makes it juicy. If you prefer leaner meat, use pork loin or even chicken thighs for a lighter option.
Banana Ketchup: It’s sweet and tangy, unique to Filipino cuisine. If you can’t find it, mix regular ketchup with a bit of brown sugar and vinegar for a similar taste.
Brown Sugar: I like using dark brown sugar for its richer flavor, but light brown sugar works too! You can substitute with honey or maple syrup if needed.
Oyster Sauce: It adds a nice umami flavor. Feel free to use hoisin sauce as a vegetarian option or to skip it altogether if you prefer less sweetness.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill on My Skewers?
Grilling can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get those beautiful char marks! Here’s how:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat to seal in the juices.
- Keep the skewers well-away from flare-ups by turning them frequently.
- Baste with the marinade during grilling for a sticky finish!
- Let the skewers rest after grilling to help keep the meat juicy.
Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, thinly sliced or cut into thin strips
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup (or substitute with regular ketchup mixed with a bit of sugar and vinegar)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp vinegar (white or cane vinegar)
- 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 requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 3 hours of marinating time for the pork, preferably overnight. Cooking on the grill will take around 10-12 minutes, making the total time around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Perfect for a weekend meal or a special gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, oyster sauce, vinegar, and black pepper. Stir well until the brown sugar is fully dissolved in the mixture, creating a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the thinly sliced pork to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or better yet, leave it overnight to absorb all the yummy flavors!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will give your skewers a nice char while keeping the meat juicy.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated pork pieces and thread them onto the pre-soaked bamboo skewers. You can fold or roll the strips as needed to fit nicely on the skewer.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with any leftover marinade. Watch for that beautiful char to develop on the edges, indicating they’re ready!
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in the juices. Garnish your delicious skewers with chopped green onions before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Serve these tasty BBQ pork skewers hot, paired with steamed rice and your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the sweet, sticky, and savory flavor in every bite!
FAQ about Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork is traditional, you can substitute with chicken thighs or beef for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type of meat used.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill or in a pan over low heat until heated through.
What If I Can’t Find Banana Ketchup?
If banana ketchup is unavailable, you can use regular ketchup mixed with a tablespoon of sugar and a splash of vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. It works well as a substitute!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can make the marinade ahead of time, preferably a day in advance. Just keep it stored in the fridge until you’re ready to use it with the pork. This allows the flavors to develop even further!
