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Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers Recipe with Sweet Soy Glaze for Perfect Grilling

Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers - featured image

Juicy pork skewers marinated in a sweet and tangy Filipino-style soy glaze, perfect for quick grilling and packed with authentic flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce (80 ml)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (50 g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons calamansi juice or fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, calamansi or lime juice, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add pork cubes to the marinade, toss to coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 3-4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
  3. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated pork cubes onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Brush grates lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes. Brush generously with leftover marinade or additional glaze during cooking to build a sticky, caramelized layer.
  6. Check doneness by ensuring pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or cut into a piece to confirm no pink inside.
  7. Remove skewers from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Marinate pork for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours or overnight for best flavor and tenderness. Keep an eye on flare-ups as sugar in glaze can burn quickly. Basting during grilling keeps pork moist and sticky. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Pork tenderloin can be used as a leaner alternative but cooks faster.

Nutrition

Keywords: Filipino BBQ, pork skewers, sweet soy glaze, grilling, easy recipe, pork shoulder, calamansi, backyard BBQ