This Easy Filipino BBQ Pork is juicy and full of flavor! Made with tender pork marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, it’s perfect for grilling. Plus, it’s really simple to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt: Both cuts are great for BBQ because they are tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try pork loin, but keep in mind it may not be as juicy.
Soy Sauce: This brings saltiness and umami to the dish. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
Brown Sugar: The sweetness helps balance the savory flavors. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Banana Ketchup: A unique flavor in Filipino cuisine! If you can’t find it, using regular ketchup mixed with a teaspoon of sugar gives a similar sweetness.
Calamansi Juice: This citrus adds a zesty kick. If unavailable, lime or lemon juice works perfectly. I’ve used lemon juice before, and it still tastes fresh!
How Do You Marinade the Pork for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the pork is crucial for flavor! The longer you marinate, the better it tastes. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a large bowl until the brown sugar dissolves.
- Place the cubed pork in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is best for deep flavor.
Give it a little stir during marination to mix the flavors around. This way, you’ll end up with deliciously tender and flavorful BBQ pork! Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Easy Filipino BBQ Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The BBQ Pork:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup banana ketchup (or substitute with regular ketchup + a teaspoon of sugar)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes (to prevent burning)
- Optional: 1 small onion, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe includes about 10 minutes of prep time and requires at least 2 hours of marinating (preferably overnight) for the best flavor. The grilling will take around 10-15 minutes. So, you can expect to spend some quality time preparing this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, banana ketchup, minced garlic, oyster sauce, calamansi juice, black pepper, salt, and the finely chopped onion if you choose to use it. Give it a good stir until the sugar is well dissolved, creating a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Add the bite-sized pieces of pork to the bowl, ensuring every cube is coated in the flavorful marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, overnight is best to deepen those yummy flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. It should be nice and hot, ready to give the pork that perfect char!
4. Skewer the Pork:
Take the marinated pork out of the fridge and thread the pieces onto your soaked bamboo skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly and get a nice grilled texture.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Time to grill! Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally and baste with leftover marinade for extra moisture and that glossy finish. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is caramelized and slightly charred!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork is done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in. Enjoy your BBQ Pork hot with steamed rice and your favorite dipping sauce or side dish!
Enjoy your juicy, sweet, and savory Filipino BBQ Pork! Your friends and family are sure to love it!
FAQ About Easy Filipino BBQ Pork
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder or pork butt are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin or even chicken if you prefer. Just be aware that cooking times may vary based on the cut of meat.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
You can marinate the pork for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. If you’re short on time, try to marinate for at least 2 hours. Just remember that longer marination results in a more flavorful dish!
What If I Don’t Have Bamboo Skewers?
No worries! If bamboo skewers aren’t available, you can grill the marinated pork in a grill basket or on a grill plate. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent any pieces from falling through the grates!
Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Absolutely! Store any leftover BBQ pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. It’ll still be delicious!
