Pork Kilawin (Filipino Grilled Pork with Tangy Vinegar Sauce)
You'll fall in love with this Pork Kilawin recipe for its perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that dance on your palate. The tender grilled pork belly is marinated to perfection, then tossed with fresh vegetables in a vibrant vinegar sauce that's refreshing yet satisfying. It's an impressive dish that's surprisingly easy to make and perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course at your next gathering!
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup banana ketchup
- 1 head garlic minced
- ½ lemon juiced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Sauce:
- ¾ cup white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork belly
- 2 cucumbers sliced
- 2 tomatoes sliced
- 1 red onion sliced
- 3 chili peppers chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, banana ketchup, minced garlic, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Add the pork belly to the marinade, ensuring it's completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight for best results).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the marinated pork belly until thoroughly cooked, about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Check that there's no pink in the center.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized serving pieces.
- Make the sauce by combining white vinegar, soy sauce, white sugar, salt, and ground black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the sliced pork, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and chili pepper to the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well coated with the vinegar sauce.
- Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy!
Tips from Lola's Kitchen
- Grill marks matter! For the best flavor, don't rush the grilling process. Let those beautiful char marks develop for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chili peppers according to your preference.
- For extra flavor, try grilling the pork belly over charcoal rather than gas if possible.
- Marinate overnight for the most flavorful and tender pork.
- Slice the vegetables uniformly for the most attractive presentation and even flavor distribution.
- Serve slightly chilled for the most refreshing experience, especially on warm days.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!