Weeknight Filipino Pork BBQ (Banana Ketchup Style)

Weeknight Filipino Pork BBQ (Banana Ketchup Style)

Filipino pork BBQ is one of those dishes that instantly brings comfort and nostalgia. Traditionally, it is marinated overnight and grilled slowly over charcoal, often sold as street food or served at family gatherings. But this weeknight-friendly version, inspired by a viral TikTok recipe, keeps all the sweet, smoky, and garlicky flavors without the long prep or outdoor grill.

The secret is banana ketchup. It is iconic in Filipino cooking, adding sweetness, tang, and that signature reddish glaze that caramelizes beautifully in a hot pan.

Why Banana Ketchup Is Essential

Banana ketchup is not just a substitute. It is part of the flavor identity of Filipino BBQ. Compared to tomato ketchup, it is:

• Sweeter and more rounded
• Slightly tangy without being sharp
• Perfect for caramelization and glossy finishes

Combined with soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and black pepper, it creates that unmistakable Filipino BBQ profile that hits salty, sweet, and savory all at once.

Designed for Busy Weeknights

Instead of relying on hours or overnight of marination, this recipe uses thinly sliced pork shoulder. More surface area means:

• Faster flavor absorption
• Quicker cooking
• Better caramelization in a pan or grill skillet

In under 30 minutes, you get sticky, charred pork that tastes like it has been grilling all afternoon.

Cooking Method That Still Delivers Char

No charcoal? No problem. A cast-iron skillet or grill pan does the job perfectly:

• High heat for initial searing
• A quick baste with reserved marinade
• Just enough charring to mimic street-style BBQ

Lower the heat slightly at the end so the sugars do not burn, and you will get that glossy, lacquered finish that Filipino BBQ is known for.

How to Serve It

This pork BBQ shines when paired simply:

• Filipino spiced vinegar (suka) with chili and garlic
• Steamed rice (optional, but highly recommended)

The acidity of the vinegar cuts through the sweetness and keeps each bite balanced and addictive.

Variations and Tips

• Add calamansi or lemon juice to the marinade for brightness
• Chicken thighs or pork belly work beautifully as substitutes
• Air fryer friendly, cook hot and fast, then brush with glaze at the end
• Some home cooks add Sprite or 7Up for extra sweetness, but it is optional

A Modern Take on a Classic

This recipe proves you do not need charcoal, skewers, or an overnight marinade to enjoy authentic Filipino BBQ flavors. It is bold, nostalgic, and perfectly suited for modern home cooking, especially when you are craving something deeply satisfying on a busy weeknight.