This Filipino Pork BBQ is a tasty treat! Tender pork marinated in a sweet and savory sauce makes for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for grilling. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up!
Fire up the grill and get ready to impress your friends and family. I bet they’ll be asking for seconds—who can resist that yummy sticky glaze? Bring on the summer BBQ vibes! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is great for BBQ because it’s tender and flavorful. If you need a lighter option, you could substitute with pork tenderloin, although it’s less fatty.
Soy Sauce: A crucial ingredient for that umami flavor. If you’re looking for a low-sodium version or have a soy allergy, try tamari or coconut aminos for a similar taste.
Calamansi Juice: This adds a unique citrusy zing. If you can’t find it, lemon juice works well. Lime juice is another good alternative, giving a slightly different flavor but still refreshing.
Brown Sugar: It helps balance the savory soy sauce. You can use white sugar or coconut sugar if you’re in a pinch. For a healthier touch, try using maple syrup instead.
Bamboo Skewers: Soaking prevents burning on the grill. If you can’t find bamboo, metal skewers are a good substitute, just make sure to oil them lightly.
How Do I Ensure Juicy, Flavorful Pork on the Skewers?
The key to juicy, flavorful pork is marinating it well! Aim to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the meat to absorb all the flavors and guarantees tenderness.
- Combine your marinade in a large bowl and mix until the sugar dissolves.
- Cube the pork shoulder into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Make sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade and cover it before refrigerating.
When grilling, avoid overcrowding the skewers. Leaving a little space allows heat to circulate, which helps the pork cook evenly and char nicely. And don’t forget to brush with honey in the last few minutes for a delicious glaze! Enjoy!
Delicious Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or cane vinegar)
- 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lemon juice as a substitute)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
For the Pork Skewers:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey (for glazing)
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) for marinating the pork. Grilling the skewers will take another 10-15 minutes. In total, you are looking at around 2-3 hours, counting the marinating time, for a tasty BBQ experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, calamansi juice, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, and paprika (if using). Mix everything well until the sugar is dissolved. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the bite-sized pork pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate overnight—trust us, it’s worth it!
3. Get Your Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the skewers cook evenly and get that nice char.
4. Skewer the Pork:
Take the marinated pork out of the refrigerator and thread the pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. This is where the magic happens—those juices will lock in during grilling!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. You’re looking for the pork to be cooked through and slightly charred. Get ready for the delicious smell!
6. Glaze for Extra Flavor:
During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with honey. This will add a delightful sweetness and make them beautifully glossy. Yum!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once they are done grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite mouthwatering!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ pork skewers with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Gather your friends or family, dig in, and enjoy the bursting flavors of these Filipino BBQ skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can use pork belly, pork loin, or even pork tenderloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut, so adjust as necessary to ensure the pork is fully cooked and tender.
Can I Marinate the Pork for Longer Than 2 Hours?
Yes, you can marinate the pork for up to 24 hours. In fact, longer marinating can develop even deeper flavors! Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
What If I Don’t Have Calamansi Juice?
No worries! Lemon juice is a great substitute and will give the skewers a nice tangy flavor. You could also use lime juice if you have that on hand—just keep the same measurement for a balanced taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm them in the microwave for a quick option or briefly grill them again to bring back that charred flavor. Just a few minutes on the grill will do the trick!
