Thai Chili Pork Belly Skewers

Thai Chili Pork Belly Skewers

Embark on a culinary journey to the bustling streets of Thailand with these exquisite Thai Chili Pork Belly Skewers. This dish captures the vibrant essence of authentic Thai street food, where succulent cubes of pork belly are transformed into an irresistible delicacy. Marinated in a complex blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, featuring the aromatic trio of lemongrass, garlic, and fresh chilies, along with the umami depth of fish sauce and soy sauce, and a touch of brown sugar for balance. The magic truly happens when these flavorful pieces hit the grill, rendering the fat to tender perfection and creating a gloriously sticky, caramelized glaze. Each skewer is a flavor bomb, offering a delightful textual contrast between the crispy edges and melt-in-your-mouth pork, infused with the bright zest of lime juice. These skewers are more than just a meal; they're an experience, perfect for casual gatherings, barbecues, or a flavorful weeknight treat. Their handheld nature makes them ideal for a dynamic 'Street Meals' category, allowing you to savor the rich, globally inspired tastes of Bangkok's vibrant food scene right in your own backyard.

Preparation time
25 min
Cooking time
15 min
Total time
40 min
Servings
8

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Combine all marinade ingredients (Thai chili sauce, minced lemongrass, minced garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and white pepper) in a medium bowl. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. 2Add the pork belly cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  3. 3Thread the marinated pork belly cubes onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers. Arrange them so there's a small space between each piece for even cooking.

Cooking

  1. 1Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. 2Place the pork belly skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, rotating frequently, until the pork is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through, with slightly charred edges. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
  3. 3Baste the skewers with any remaining marinade during the last few minutes of cooking, ensuring it cooks thoroughly.

Serving

  1. 1Carefully remove the Thai Chili Pork Belly Skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
  2. 2Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of sticky rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or a squeeze of extra lime juice for an authentic street food experience.

Nutrition Information

Calories
350 kcal
Protein
15 g
Fat
28 g
Carbs
8 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories350 kcal
Protein15 g
Fat28 g
Carbs8 g

Tips

  • Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring a cleaner cook and easier handling.
  • For an extra crispy exterior, blot the pork belly dry before marinating, though this may reduce marinade absorption slightly.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and finely chopped red chilies for an extra pop of color and fresh spice.

By Chef Michael Ilin