These Filipino-style BBQ Pork Skewers are a flavor explosion—tender pork shoulder marinated in a sweet-savory blend of soy sauce, banana ketchup, garlic, and citrus, then grilled to smoky perfection.
They’re perfect for cookouts, parties, or weeknight grilling!
Why You’ll Love These Filipino BBQ Skewers
Bold, Authentic Flavor: Classic Filipino-style sweet and savory profile
Grill-Ready: Great for backyard BBQs or stovetop grill pans
Tender & Juicy: Pork shoulder soaks up all the marinade
Perfect for Sharing: Crowd-pleasing and easy to serve
Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate overnight for best results
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pork Shoulder – Sliced thin for tenderness and quick cooking
Soy Sauce & Banana Ketchup – Signature sweet-savory Filipino base
Garlic & Brown Sugar – Rich, aromatic depth
Lemon Juice or Calamansi – Brightens and tenderizes
Black Pepper & Optional Chili Flakes – Heat and balance
Skewers – Soak in water if wooden
Pro Tips Before You Start
Slice Pork Thin for faster grilling and more flavor absorption
Marinate Overnight for maximum depth
Use Banana Ketchup – It’s essential for that Filipino BBQ flavor
Grill on High Heat to caramelize the sugars
Brush with Reserved Marinade during cooking for extra glaze
How to Make Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Step 1: Prep the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, lemon juice, and black pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
Add sliced pork to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Skewer the Pork
Thread marinated pork onto pre-soaked skewers, folding strips if needed for even cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Grill skewers for 3–4 minutes per side, brushing with leftover marinade until nicely charred and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from grill and let rest briefly.
Garnish with green onions or serve with steamed rice.
What to Serve It With
Garlic fried rice or jasmine rice
Atchara (Filipino pickled papaya)
Grilled corn or pineapple slices
Spicy vinegar dipping sauce
Fresh cucumber salad
Variations / Substitutions
Use Chicken Thighs – Also works great with the marinade
Make It Spicier – Add chili flakes or chopped Thai chili
No Banana Ketchup? – Sub with tomato ketchup + sugar + splash of vinegar
Bake Instead – Roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, broiling to finish
Use Metal Skewers – No soaking needed
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: In a skillet, oven, or air fryer until warm
Freeze: Raw marinated pork can be frozen up to 2 months
FAQs
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan or broil in the oven for char.
What cut of pork is best?
Pork shoulder or butt is ideal for flavor and tenderness.
Can I use store-bought Filipino BBQ sauce?
Sure, but the homemade marinade has richer, fresher taste.
How long should I marinate?
Minimum 4 hours, overnight is best.
Can I prepare these for a party?
Yes! Skewer ahead and keep chilled until ready to grill.
Final Thoughts
These Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers are sweet, smoky, and irresistibly juicy—just like the ones you’d find at a street food stand in Manila.
Once you try them, they’ll become a permanent part of your grilling rotation.
Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk marinade ingredients together in a bowl.
- Add pork slices, cover, and refrigerate for 4–24 hours.
- Thread pork onto skewers.
- Grill over medium-high heat 3–4 mins per side, brushing with extra marinade.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/filipino-bbq-pork-skewers/
Notes
- Slicing the pork thinly ensures it cooks quickly and absorbs more marinade.
- It gives the dish its signature sweetness and color. If unavailable, sub with regular ketchup + a bit of sugar.
- Watch the skewers closely—the sugar in the marinade can burn fast over high heat.
