This Easy Filipino BBQ Pork will make your backyard grilling a hit! It’s made with tender pork marinated in a yummy blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, delivering a sweet and savory taste.
You won’t believe how easy it is to prepare! I love serving it with a side of rice and a splash of vinegar for dipping. It always gets everyone smiling! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is great for BBQ as it’s tender and flavorful. You can also use pork belly or even chicken thighs if you prefer something lighter.
Banana Ketchup: A unique Filipino staple that adds sweetness and flavor. If you can’t find it, mix regular ketchup with a little brown sugar for a similar taste.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too, but the flavor won’t be quite as strong.
Paprika or Annatto Powder: This is optional but enhances the color. If you don’t have it, skip it, or try a bit of ground turmeric for a different hue!
Bamboo Skewers: Soaking them prevents burning. If you don’t have bamboo, metal skewers are a great alternative; just skip the soaking step.
How Can I Ensure My Pork is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating your pork is key for flavor and tenderness. Ideally, let it marinate overnight, but even a few hours will make a difference. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply, making each bite tasty.
- Make sure all pork pieces are coated in the marinade by mixing it well.
- When grilling, keep a close eye. Turn every few minutes to avoid burning and to achieve even cooking.
- Don’t throw away the leftover marinade! Use it to baste the skewers while they cook – it adds an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy your BBQ with family and friends, making memories over delicious food! 🌟
Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Recipe for Backyard Grilling
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, thinly sliced or cut into strips
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup banana ketchup (or substitute with regular ketchup with a touch of sugar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or annatto powder (optional for color)
For Grilling:
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours of marinating time (ideally overnight) and about 15 minutes of grilling time. So, overall, plan for about 4 hours and 30 minutes, but most of that is just waiting for the flavors to soak in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped onion, vinegar, black pepper, salt, and paprika or annatto powder (if you’re using it). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and everything looks well blended.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork slices or strips to the marinade. Make sure all pieces are well coated! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a deep flavor.
3. Get Your Grill Ready:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, take the marinated pork out of the fridge. Thread the pork pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, packing them securely but not too tightly.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Use the leftover marinade to baste the skewers for a shiny glaze, but be careful—the sugar can char quickly! It’s normal to have some charred edges, as they add flavor.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the pork is cooked through and nicely caramelized, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juiciness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped green onions or chives and serve these tasty skewers hot with steamed rice and flavorful dipping sauces, like vinegar with chili or a sweet-spicy sauce. Enjoy your backyard grilling adventure!
Dig in and savor every delicious bite of your Filipino BBQ Pork! 🍢✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken thighs or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary since different meats have varying cooking durations.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Banana Ketchup?
No worries! If banana ketchup isn’t available, you can substitute it with regular ketchup mixed with a bit of brown sugar to replicate that sweet flavor profile. A pinch of chili powder can also add a kick if you like it spicy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ pork skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the grill or in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, you can chop the leftovers and toss them into a stir-fry for a quick meal!
Can I Marinate the Pork for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the pork overnight or up to 24 hours for an even richer flavor. Just be cautious with very acidic marinades; marinating too long can make the texture mushy. This recipe strikes a nice balance for optimal flavor and tenderness!
