Finger-Lickin’ Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers

Growing up in a Filipino household, the aroma of perfectly grilled pork skewers was a familiar and comforting scent that would waft through the air, beckoning me to the dinner table. The sweet and savory flavors, the charred edges, and the tender, juicy meat – it was a taste of home that I could never resist. Even now, years later, the mere thought of Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers transports me back to those memories of laughter, family, and the unparalleled joy of sharing a meal together.

Why This Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers

What sets this Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and the attention to detail in the preparation process. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates a marinade that not only tenderizes the pork but also infuses it with a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. The optional addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while the fresh lime juice provides a refreshing contrast that ties the entire dish together.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes: The pork tenderloin is the star of this dish, providing a tender and juicy texture that is the perfect canvas for the bold flavors of the marinade.
• 1/2 cup soy sauce: The soy sauce not only seasons the pork but also helps to tenderize it, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a caramelized sweetness that balances the savory soy sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a staple in Filipino cuisine, and its aromatic presence in this marinade adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: The ginger provides a subtle heat and a refreshing zing that complements the other flavors perfectly.
• 1 lime, juiced: The bright, tangy lime juice helps to cut through the richness of the pork and brightens up the entire dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little extra heat, the red pepper flakes add a delightful kick that takes this recipe to the next level.
• 12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes: The wooden skewers not only provide a sturdy base for the pork but also add a charming, rustic touch to the presentation.

Step-by-Step Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers Instructions

Preparing Your Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers

With a total time of just 25 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking), this Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal. All you’ll need are a few simple tools, like a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a grill or grill pan.

1- Begin by cutting the pork tenderloin into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lime juice. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved, creating a flavorful marinade.
3- Add the pork cubes to the marinade, making sure they are well coated on all sides. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse the meat.
4- While the pork is marinating, soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This will prevent them from burning on the grill.
5- Once the pork is ready, thread the cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to allow for even cooking.
6- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Carefully place the skewered pork onto the hot surface and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until the pork is cooked through and the edges are nicely charred.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours, to ensure the flavors have time to penetrate the meat without making it too soft.
2. Soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the pork to prevent them from burning on the grill.
3. Use a grill or grill pan to achieve that irresistible charred flavor, but you can also broil the skewers in the oven if you don’t have access to a grill.
4. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spice. Start with a small amount and increase it if you want more heat.
5. Serve the Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

Serving and Storing Your Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers

Perfect Pairings for Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers

This recipe for Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers serves 6 people and is the perfect centerpiece for a backyard barbecue, a family gathering, or a weeknight dinner. To complement the bold, flavorful pork, consider serving it with a refreshing cabbage slaw, steamed rice, or a vibrant mango salsa. For beverages, a cold Filipino-style lemonade or an icy cold beer would be the perfect accompaniment.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have any leftover Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the skewers on a baking sheet and warm them in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

For meal prepping, you can marinate the pork cubes up to 2 days in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to thread them onto the skewers and grill them. This makes for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a hassle-free party dish.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers

Creative Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers Variations

1. Pineapple Pork BBQ Skewers: Add cubed fresh pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and tangy twist.
2. Spicy Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a fiery kick.
3. Tropical Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers: Incorporate diced mango, papaya, or coconut into the marinade for a tropical flavor profile.

Making Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers Diet-Friendly

For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. To make it vegan or vegetarian, replace the pork with firm tofu or portobello mushroom caps, adjusting the cooking time as needed. For a low-carb adaptation, serve the skewers over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the pork tenderloin with chicken thighs or breasts, beef sirloin, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.

Q: How long should I marinate the pork?
A: The pork should marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours. This allows the flavors to infuse the meat without making it too soft.

Q: Can I make the Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the pork cubes up to 2 days in advance and then thread them onto the skewers and grill them when ready to serve.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers recipe serves 6 people.

Q: What should I do if the pork is not cooking through?
A: If the pork is not cooking through, it’s likely that the pieces are too large. Try cutting the cubes into smaller, more uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

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Conclusion

Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers are a taste of home that I’m thrilled to share with you. With their perfectly balanced flavors, tender texture, and crowd-pleasing appeal, these skewers are sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, give this Filipino Pork BBQ Skewers recipe a try. I promise it will transport you to the warm, vibrant flavors of the Philippines. Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know what you think in the comments below!