BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade

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Grilling season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with these mouthwatering BBQ Pork Skewers with a Filipino BBQ Marinade. Bursting with bold, sweet, and savory flavors, this recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The unique marinade—featuring banana ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and citrus—creates a perfectly balanced glaze that caramelizes beautifully over an open flame.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves barbecue but wants to try something a little different from the usual American-style ribs and burgers. The Filipino-style marinade gives the pork a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and umami-rich flavors. It’s easy to make, requires minimal prep work, and is guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

Who Is This Recipe For?

  • Fans of sweet and savory barbecue flavors
  • Anyone looking for an easy yet impressive grilling recipe
  • Those who enjoy experimenting with international cuisines
  • People who want a great meal prep recipe that can be made ahead of time

Ingredients

For the Pork:

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, thinly sliced into bite-sized strips
  • Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden ones)

For the Marinade:

  • 1/2 cup banana ketchup (or regular ketchup with 1 tbsp mashed banana)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice or calamansi juice
  • 1/4 cup 7-Up or Sprite (for tenderizing)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, grated or finely minced
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
  • 1 tbsp chili sauce or hot sauce (optional for spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Pork

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients.
  2. Add sliced pork and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Skewer the Pork

  1. Thread marinated pork slices onto skewers in an accordion-style pattern to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

  1. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 3–5 minutes per side.
  2. Baste occasionally with the leftover marinade.
  3. Grill until slightly charred and caramelized, and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
  2. Serve hot with steamed rice, atchara (pickled papaya), or a simple vinegar dipping sauce.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Grater or food processor (for onion)
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)
  • Grill or grill pan
  • Tongs
  • Basting brush

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also freeze the marinated pork (uncooked) for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.

Food and Drink Pairings

  • Side Dishes: Steamed white rice, garlic fried rice, atchara (Filipino pickled papaya), or a fresh mango salad.
  • Dipping Sauces: Spiced vinegar, sweet chili sauce, or a soy sauce-lime dip.
  • Beverage Pairings: Iced calamansi juice, mango shake, or a cold bottle of beer.

Tips and Variations

  • Alternative Proteins: Try this marinade with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • No Grill? No Problem! Cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or broil them in the oven.
  • Make it Spicier: Add more chili sauce or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • Sweeter Glaze: For an extra sticky-sweet finish, brush the skewers with honey during the last few minutes of grilling.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes! Pork belly or tenderloin can also work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What if I don’t have banana ketchup?

You can substitute regular ketchup with 1 tbsp of mashed banana for a similar flavor.

3. Can I cook this indoors?

Absolutely! Use a grill pan on the stove or broil in the oven for a few minutes on each side.

4. How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the meat.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade recipe is a must-try for any grilling enthusiast. Its bold flavors and caramelized glaze make it a standout dish at any gathering. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family! If you loved this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and unique recipes.

Happy grilling!