This Easy Filipino Pork Barbecue is packed with sweet and savory flavors! Marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, it makes for a delicious treat on any grill.
Whenever I make this, the smell is enough to make everyone gather around! Serve it with rice and enjoy this simple, hearty meal with family and friends. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt: These cuts are best for barbeque since they have good marbling, making them tender. If you’re looking for an alternative, using chicken thighs can work too! They stay juicy and absorb the marinade well.
Banana Ketchup: This unique ingredient gives a sweet twist. If you’re unable to find it, regular ketchup is a fine substitute, though it might not have the same level of sweetness. You can also add a bit of sugar to mimic the taste.
Calamansi Juice: It’s a Filipino citrus that’s a bit like a mix between lime and orange. If you don’t have it, lemon juice is a great swap—just adjust for the slight difference in sweetness.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Barbecue is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key! Letting the pork sit in the marinade for at least 4 hours (or overnight if possible) allows it to soak in those delicious flavors. The sugar from the marinade helps caramelize the meat when grilling, giving it a nice char.
- Don’t skip the bamboo skewers soaking step; it prevents burning while grilling.
- When grilling, keep the heat medium-high to get that nice char without drying out the pork.
- Brush on some marinade (that’s been boiled for safety) while cooking to add extra layers of flavor.
Easy Filipino Pork Barbecue
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup (or regular ketchup as substitute)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus at least 4 hours for marinating (overnight is best!). Grilling will take an additional 10-15 minutes. In total, set aside some time to let the flavors infuse and enjoy the grilling process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped onion, pineapple juice, calamansi juice, ground black pepper, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix everything together well until the sugar is dissolved. This marinade is what gives the pork its delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Once your marinade is ready, add the cubed pork to the bowl. Toss everything together so that each piece of pork is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it sits, the tastier it gets!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, fire up your grill and preheat it to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the pork without burning. While the grill heats up, thread the marinated pork pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Pork Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally to achieve an evenly cooked and slightly charred exterior. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
5. Add Extra Flavor:
If you have leftover marinade, you can brush it on the skewers while they’re grilling to enhance the flavor. However, make sure to boil the marinade first to ensure it’s safe to use as a glaze for the meat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pork is nicely grilled and cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve them hot with a side of steamed rice and a dipping sauce, like vinegar mixed with chopped chili and garlic, to add an extra kick. Enjoy your tasty Filipino pork barbecue!
This dish is perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal at home. Happy grilling!
FAQ for Easy Filipino Pork Barbecue
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt are traditional choices due to their tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork belly or even grilled chicken if you prefer. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different cuts may require adjustments.
Can I Prep This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the pork a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This will enhance the flavor even more! Just make sure to grill it the same day for the best taste and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork skewers in the oven at a low temperature or on the grill for a few minutes to warm through without drying them out.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you enjoy spice, consider adding chopped chili peppers to the marinade or serving it with a spicy dipping sauce. You could even sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the cooked pork for an extra kick.
