Delicious Barbecued Pork Skewers: A Flavorful Grilling Adventure
Get ready to fire up the grill and tantalize your taste buds with these mouthwatering Barbecued Pork Skewers! Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a savory and satisfying meal, these skewers are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Made with tender pork shoulder marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and barbecue sauce, these skewers are grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy, smoky, and utterly delicious bites.
Ingredients:
- 1 (2 pound) pork shoulder
- 1 large clove Garlic
- 1/4 cup Onion
- 1/2 cup prepared Barbecue sauce
- 1 tsp freshly ground Black pepper
- 1 tbsp light Brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground Cumin
- Metal skewers as needed
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork: Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Place the cubed pork in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, barbecue sauce, black pepper, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, paprika, and ground cumin. Mix well to combine.
- Marinate the Pork: Pour the marinade over the cubed pork, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pork to become tender.
- Thread the Skewers: Once the pork has finished marinating, remove it from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated pork cubes onto metal skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375-400°F (190-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the skewers from sticking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the pork skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the pork is cooked through and has developed a nice charred exterior.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the skewers are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot alongside your favorite barbecue sides and sauces.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Sauce Variations: Feel free to customize the barbecue sauce to suit your taste preferences. You can use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce or make your own from scratch. Experiment with different flavors and spice levels to create a sauce that complements the pork perfectly.
- Vegetable Additions: Add extra flavor and color to your skewers by alternating the pork cubes with chunks of bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, or pineapple. The vibrant colors and textures will make your skewers even more visually appealing and delicious.
- Grilling Tips: For best results, ensure your grill is preheated to the correct temperature before adding the skewers. Avoid overcrowding the grill to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. Additionally, keep a close eye on the skewers while grilling to prevent them from burning.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can modify this recipe to fit your dietary needs:
- Sugar-Free Barbecue Sauce: Look for a sugar-free or low-carb barbecue sauce option at your local grocery store, or make your own using sugar substitutes such as erythritol or stevia.
- Marinade Adjustment: Omit the brown sugar from the marinade or substitute it with a keto-friendly sweetener. The natural sweetness of the onion and garlic, combined with the savory spices, will still impart plenty of flavor to the pork.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Instead of using onion in the marinade, you can enhance the flavor with additional garlic or fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a custom marinade that suits your taste preferences.
In conclusion, these Barbecued Pork Skewers are a fantastic addition to any outdoor gathering or barbecue feast. With their tender, flavorful pork and irresistible smoky char, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, tailgate party, or simply craving a delicious grilled meal, these skewers are the perfect choice. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy the unbeatable taste of homemade barbecued pork skewers!