Tasty and Juicy Filipino Barbecue Skewers: A Complete Grilling Guide
Introduction
If you’re a fan of grilled food and want to try something uniquely flavorful, these Filipino-style barbecue skewers are a must-try. Known for their sweet, tangy, and savory profile, they’re a crowd favorite across the Philippines. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare tender, juicy skewers with a perfect marinade, grilling techniques, and healthy tips to make it even better.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein: A great post-workout meal or weekend treat.
- Balanced flavors: Sweetness from brown sugar and ketchup, acidity from lemon juice, and a kick from garlic and black pepper.
- Make-ahead friendly: Marinate the meat ahead of time, so it’s ready to grill anytime.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup light soy sauce
- ½ cup lemon juice or lime juice
- ½ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1–2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
For the Skewers:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken thigh or beef, cut into bite-size cubes
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 1 hour to prevent burning
- Optional: bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks for added flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, lemon juice, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well-blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Meat
Add your cubed meat to the marinade. Mix well so every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked wooden skewers. You can alternate with vegetables like red bell pepper, onion, or pineapple chunks for extra flavor and presentation.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the skewers for about 10–15 minutes, turning every few minutes to cook evenly on all sides.
- While grilling, you can brush extra marinade (boiled beforehand to kill bacteria) over the meat for more flavor and shine.
Tips for Best Results
- Use dark meat: Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breast during grilling.
- Do not skip soaking skewers: Prevents them from catching fire on the grill.
- Healthier option: Use lean chicken and serve with a side of brown rice or a cucumber salad.
How to Serve
These barbecue skewers pair well with:
- Steamed jasmine or garlic rice
- Asian-style noodles
- A side of vinegar dipping sauce or sweet chili sauce
Storage Instructions
- Marinated meat: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days before grilling.
- Cooked skewers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, marinated meat for up to a month.
Did You Know?
In the Philippines, barbecue skewers are street food staples served at gatherings, family events, and street parties. The marinade is what gives them that unique island-style flavor — a blend of sweet, tangy, and savory that you won’t forget.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or just want to try something new, Filipino barbecue skewers offer a delicious way to enjoy grilled meat. Easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Steak avec sauce crémeuse au Gorgonzola