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.