BBQ Pork Skewers with Filipino BBQ Marinade

BBQ pork skewers with Filipino BBQ marinade are sweet, smoky, tangy, and absolutely irresistible. Inspired by classic Filipino street food, this recipe features tender pork marinated in a bold, flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, citrus, and brown sugar, then grilled to perfection over open flames or charcoal. Perfect for summer cookouts, parties, or a taste of the Philippines right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with authentic Filipino flavor
• Sweet, savory, and perfectly charred on the grill
• Great for parties, BBQs, or easy weeknight dinners
• Kid-friendly and customizable
• Make-ahead friendly—marinate in advance for extra flavor

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pork shoulder or pork butt (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic (minced)
• Banana ketchup (or regular ketchup with a splash of sugar and vinegar)
• Lemon juice or calamansi juice
• Vinegar (white or cane vinegar)
• Sprite or 7-Up (adds sweetness and tenderness)
• Ground black pepper
• Optional: chili flakes or hot sauce for spice
• Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, banana ketchup, lemon juice, vinegar, soda, and pepper to make the marinade.
2. Add cubed pork and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
3. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Thread marinated pork onto skewers. Reserve leftover marinade for basting (bring it to a boil before using).
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
6. Grill skewers for 2–3 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until pork is fully cooked and nicely charred.
7. Serve hot with rice, vinegar dipping sauce, or pickled veggies.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings (12–15 skewers).
Prep time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 4–12 hours
Cook time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 4.5–13 hours (including marination)

Variations

• Spicy version: Add chili paste, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the marinade
• Pineapple twist: Add pineapple juice or fresh chunks to the skewers
• Chicken or beef: Use the same marinade for chicken thighs or beef sirloin
• Party platter: Serve with Filipino-style pancit noodles or lumpia
• Vegan option: Use tofu or mushrooms and adjust cooking time

storage/reheating

Store leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on a grill, in a skillet, or in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
Marinated (uncooked) pork can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw before grilling.

FAQs

What cut of pork is best?

Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal—it’s marbled, tender, and flavorful when grilled.

What is banana ketchup?

A Filipino condiment made from bananas, sugar, vinegar, and spices. If unavailable, substitute with regular ketchup and add sugar and vinegar to taste.

Can I use metal skewers?

Yes! No need to soak metal skewers, and they’re reusable.

Can I grill these indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or broil in the oven on high, turning once for even cooking.

Do I have to use soda in the marinade?

Yes, traditional Filipino BBQ often uses Sprite or 7-Up for sweetness and tenderizing. You can substitute with a bit of sugar and water if preferred.

How do I keep the pork from drying out?

Don’t overcook and use fattier cuts like pork shoulder. Baste frequently during grilling.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes—marinate the pork up to a day in advance and thread onto skewers just before grilling.

What should I serve with pork skewers?

Steamed rice, garlic fried rice, pickled vegetables (atchara), or a vinegar dipping sauce.

Are these spicy?

Not typically, but you can add heat to the marinade or serve with spicy dipping sauce.

Can I double the marinade for basting?

Yes—just be sure to boil any marinade used for basting to ensure food safety.

Conclusion

BBQ pork skewers with Filipino BBQ marinade are smoky, sweet, and packed with flavor—the ultimate grill recipe that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re recreating classic Filipino street food or introducing new flavors to your cookout, these skewers are sure to steal the show.

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