As summer sizzles into full swing, there’s nothing quite like the scent of marinated meat grilling over an open flame. These Sweet and Spicy Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers combine the beloved flavors of Filipino BBQ with an easy preparation that anyone can master. Imagine tender strips of thick-cut pork chop, marinated in a delightful mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of Coca-Cola, all kissed by the heat of your grill.
I discovered this recipe while searching for something that would take my backyard barbecues to the next level. With a sticky, sweet glaze and a spicy kick, these skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering, from family cookouts to friendly get-togethers. Plus, they can be prepped a day in advance, reducing stress during those fun-filled summer evenings. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings with these flavorful treats!
Why are BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade irresistible?
Unforgettable Flavor: The perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy creates a taste sensation!
Easy Preparation: Marinating overnight makes your grilling hassle-free and flavorful.
Ideal for Gatherings: These skewers are bound to be the star of any BBQ, delighting both friends and family.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap proteins or add veggies for personalized skewers that suit everyone’s tastes.
Tender and Juicy: The thick-cut pork chops ensure a satisfying bite that’s juicy and full of flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at summer parties, these skewers will have everyone coming back for more!
BBQ Pork Skewers Ingredients
Ready to grill some mouthwatering BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade? Here’s what you need:
For the Skewers
- Thick Cut Pork Chops – Main protein source providing rich flavor; can substitute with boneless pork butt or shoulder.
- Large Skewers – Used for grilling; soak in water prior to grilling to prevent burning.
For the Marinade
- Coca-Cola – Adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat; regular is preferred for the best flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and caramelizes beautifully; both light and dark work seamlessly.
- Onion – Finely chopped for extra flavor; red, yellow, or white onions add a great touch.
- Soy Sauce – Imparts umami flavor; low sodium is recommended for a healthier option.
- Ketchup – Adds a hint of sweetness and tang; can substitute with tomato sauce if needed.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance flavors; red wine vinegar can be used as a substitute.
- Garlic Cloves – Minced for pungent aroma and flavor; fresh garlic is ideal for optimal taste.
- Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed for a bright note in the marinade.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; sea salt or your preferred type can be used.
- Black Pepper – For seasoning; fresh cracked pepper is preferred for added spice.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Add heat to the marinade; adjust to taste for personal preference.
- Sriracha – Optional, for an extra kick of heat, perfect for those who love some spice!
Now that you have everything ready, let’s bring the flavors to life on the grill!
How to Make BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade
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Prep Pork: Start by slicing each thick cut pork chop from the short side into four even strips. You should have a total of 16 delightful strips, ready to soak up that amazing marinade!
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Make Marinade: In a large bowl, combine all marinade ingredients together—don’t forget to reserve ¼ for basting later! Toss your pork strips into the marinade until they’re well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to enhance the flavors.
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Skewer Pork: Prepare your large skewers by threading 2-4 strips of marinated pork lengthwise. Make sure to leave a little space between strips for even cooking.
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Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once ready, lightly oil the grill surface to prevent sticking and ensure those skewers turn golden brown!
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Cook Skewers: Place the skewers onto the grill and close the lid. Turn them every 3-4 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade until the internal temperature hits 160°F—this usually takes about 20 minutes.
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Serve: Once cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and serve warm, alongside your favorite BBQ sides for a truly satisfying meal!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for BBQ Pork Skewers
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Soak Skewers: Ensure your large skewers are soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. This keeps them from burning during grilling.
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Monitor Heat: Different grills may have various heat distributions. Adjust cooking times as necessary to prevent overcooking these BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness at 160°F using a meat thermometer. This ensures your pork is safe to eat while remaining juicy.
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Baste Wisely: Reserve some marinade for basting only; never use marinade that has touched raw meat unless boiled first to prevent contamination.
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Enhance Flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust your spices! Increase the sriracha or red pepper flakes for extra heat based on personal preference.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Pork Skewers
Fridge: Store cooked BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the grill to maintain their juicy goodness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked marinated skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months; cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the grilling time.
Reheating: When reheating leftovers, avoid drying them out by covering skewers with foil in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy the flavor!
Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate your pork a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until grilling time to save on prep hassle.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the pork strips up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen for a mouthwatering result. Simply slice your thick-cut pork chops and toss them in the marinade, then cover and refrigerate overnight. To maintain quality, ensure your pork is well-coated and tightly sealed to avoid air exposure. When you’re ready to grill, skewer the marinated pork and cook as instructed. This way, you’ll have delightful skewers ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
What to Serve with BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade?
Elevate your summer feasts with delectable sides that perfectly complement the smoky sweetness of these skewers.
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Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: Creamy and sweet, this salad balances the spicy BBQ flavors, providing a cool and refreshing contrast.
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Filipino Pandesal Rolls: These soft, slightly sweet rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious marinade or just enjoying on their own.
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Fresh Vegetable Salad: A colorful mix of crisp greens, tomatoes, and cucumber adds a vibrant, crunchy element, refreshing your palate between bites.
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Grilled Pineapple Slices: The caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple enhances the tropical notes of the skewers, making every bite irresistible.
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Garlic Rice: Savory garlic fried rice pairs wonderfully, soaking up the rich flavors of the marinade and creating a satisfying meal.
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Beer or Citrus Mojito: A chilled lager or a zesty mojito complements the skewers’ spicy kick while invigorating your summer vibe.
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Fruit Salad: A light, juicy fruit medley provides a sweet finish to your BBQ, balancing the savory elements of the meal.
BBQ Pork Skewers Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these skewers to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap pork for chicken thighs for a lighter option that still packs flavor. Tender and juicy, they grill beautifully!
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Tofu: For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu. Marinate and skewer cubed tofu for a satisfying option that still absorbs the rich flavors.
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Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini onto the skewers. These colorful veggies add freshness and a delightful crunch!
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Pineapple Chunks: Sweet and tangy pineapple chunks can be added to the skewers for a tropical touch that pairs perfectly with the marinade.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the sriracha or red pepper flakes if you crave extra heat. Let your taste buds guide you to the perfect spiciness level!
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Citrus Zest: Enhance the marinade with a touch of orange or lime zest for a vibrant zing that brightens up the flavors even more!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing any of its wonderful taste.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for a rich, smoky depth that transforms these skewers into an unforgettable BBQ treat.
BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pork for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pork, opt for thick-cut pork chops, which provide rich flavor and juicy texture. You can also use boneless pork butt or shoulder for a tender result. Look for cuts that are well-marbled with fat, as this will enhance the moisture and tenderness during grilling.
How long can I store the cooked skewers in the fridge?
You can store your cooked BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing the container. If you need to reheat them, a quick zap in the microwave or a few minutes on the grill will work wonders to maintain their juiciness.
Can I freeze the marinated pork skewers? How?
Yes, you can! To ensure maximum flavor and tenderness, freeze the uncooked, marinated pork skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, grill them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
What should I do if my skewers are burning on the grill?
Very! If your skewers are burning, it could be that your grill is too hot. Make sure to preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. If they continue to char, try moving them to a cooler part of the grill or raise them higher from the flames. Also, ensure you’ve soaked your wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes, which can help prevent burning.
What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
Definitely! If someone at your gathering has food allergies, remember that soy sauce contains wheat, so be sure to choose a gluten-free alternative. Additionally, you can adjust the heat levels by controlling the amount of red pepper flakes and sriracha for those who may be sensitive to spice. Everyone can enjoy these skewers with a few thoughtful tweaks!
Is it safe to use all of the marinade after marinating the pork?
Great question! For food safety, it’s crucial to reserve some of the marinade before adding the raw pork to it. Never use marinade that has come into contact with raw meat unless it has been cooked first. If you want to use it as a basting sauce, just bring the reserved marinade to a boil before applying it to ensure it’s safe. Always prioritize safety while enjoying those delicious flavors!
Savor Summer with BBQ Pork Skewers and Filipino Marinade
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Pork: Slice each thick cut pork chop into four even strips for a total of 16 strips.
- Make Marinade: Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl; reserve ¼ for basting. Coat pork strips and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
- Skewer Pork: Thread 2-4 strips of marinated pork onto the skewers, leaving space between strips.
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium heat, lightly oil the surface.
- Cook Skewers: Grill skewers for about 20 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, basting with reserved marinade until internal temperature is 160°F.
- Serve: Remove from grill and serve warm with BBQ sides.