The fact that vinegar can be a wonderful addition to a wide variety of recipes, even those using meat, is not a secret. Due to the presence of this crucial component, we are able to rely on the sharpness of the flavor. The Filipino people have, of course, figured out how to make the most of this opportunity. The meal of pork kilawin, which is absolutely mouthwatering, is a clear demonstration of this fact.
What is Pork Kilawin?
An excellent combination of sour and salty flavors may be found in this recipe. In addition, if you enjoy food that is both savory and refreshing, then this would be an excellent choice for you! The dish known as Pork Kilawin is a grilled meat dish that also includes pieces of various fruits and vegetables. Naturally, the characteristic that most distinguishes it from other foods is its vinegary flavor, which we counteract by adding a little bit of sugar and a touch of heat.
It is likely that the variety of kilawin that requires the usage of seafood is the one that is most commonly consumed. However, if you are looking for something that is a little bit more full or if you are simply in the mood for something meaty, the pork version is unquestionably something that you should try! Considering that kilawin is an excellent choice for an appetizer, you can enjoy this dish at the beginning of your meal.
Pork Belly Marinade
However, the marinade that is used in this dish is likely to be one of the elements that truly differentiates it from other types of kilawin. With the assistance of ingredients such as banana ketchup, soy sauce, and onion powder, we are able to achieve the pork belly that is simultaneously the most tasty and juicy! In addition, there is the sauce, which has a flavor that is both sour and slightly sweet, and it is what brings everything together. Continue scrolling to find out what you will need for the marinade and sauce that you will be using on your kilawin.
Pork Kilawin Ingredients
Marinade
One or more of the ingredients that you will require in order to make your marinade have already been listed. The measurements, on the other hand, can be broken down here in order to guarantee that your pork will not end up being overly salty. As a first step, you should acquire a quarter cup of soy sauce, a quarter cup of banana ketchup, and one head of garlic.
Additionally, it is recommended that you possess a quarter of a lemon, one teaspoon of onion powder, half a teaspoon of salt, and one-fourth of a teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Sauce
Your dish will undoubtedly taste as exciting as kilawin should be with this yummy sauce! Just prepare ¾ cup of white vinegar, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of white sugar. We will need ¼ teaspoon of salt along with ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper too.
Other Ingredients
Finally, we will make use of 1 lb. of pork belly. Get ready to do some slicing as well. Slice up 2 cucumbers, 2 tomatoes, and 1 red onion. Then chop 3 chili peppers.
How to Make Pork Kilawin
Marinating the pork
To begin, you will need to collect the components for the marinade, which include the following: soy sauce, banana ketchup, garlic, lemon, onion powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Prepare all of these components by placing them in a bowl that is large enough to accommodate the pork as well. The next step is to combine all of the ingredients for the marinade. After the ingredients have been mixed together, you can then add your pork belly to the mixture. Prepare the pork by ensuring that it is completely submerged in the liquid, and then marinade it for at least three hours.
Cooking your pork belly
Have you finished marinating? The moment has come to illuminate your barbecue. Once this has reached the desired temperature, you may place the pork belly on the grill. It is important to continue grilling the meat until it is completely cooked through. It is essential to identify any areas, particularly the interior, that have been left in their raw state. However, once you have ensured that the pork is completely cooked, you may slice it into pieces that are suitable for serving before putting it away.
And now that our sauce and other ingredients are perfectly blended, we can have a taste of our sour Pork Kilawin! Just transfer the food to a serving container or plate. The beauty of kilawin is that you do not have to serve it hot. In fact, some even like having it cold. And so you may opt to toss this in the refrigerator for a bit before eating it.
But if you are fine with chowing down on Pork Kilawin while it is a bit hot, feel free to serve this as is!
How to Store Pork Kilawin
Want to have your Pork Kilawin in the next few days? That’s alright since we can just refrigerate this. Simply transfer the food to an airtight container. And then you may place the container in your fridge, extending the shelf life to about 3 days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork belly
- 2 cucumbers sliced
- 2 tomatoes (optional)
- 1 red onion sliced
- 3 pieces chili pepper chopped
Sauce ingredients:
- ¾ cup white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Marinade ingredients:
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- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup banana ketchup
- 1 head garlic
- ½ lemon
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
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Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Mix well. Add the pork belly. Marinate for at least 3 hours.
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Grill the pork belly until fully cooked. Slice it into serving pieces. Set aside.
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Combine all the sauce ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced pork, cucumber, tomato, onion, and chili pepper. Toss until well blended.
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Transfer to a serving plate. Serve.
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Share and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
FAQ
What is Pork Kilawin?
Pork Kilawin is a Filipino dish similar to ceviche but made with boiled or lightly cooked pork, often mixed with vinegar, onions, ginger, chili, and sometimes coconut milk. The acid from the vinegar helps cure or marinate the meat, giving it a fresh, tangy flavor.
Is Pork Kilawin safe to eat?
Yes, Pork Kilawin is safe to eat as long as the pork is properly cooked before being marinated. Unlike seafood-based kilawin, where the meat is cured by the vinegar, pork is typically boiled until tender and then mixed with the vinegar dressing.
What cut of pork is best for Kilawin?
The most commonly used cuts for Pork Kilawin are pork belly or pork shoulder, as they have a good balance of fat and meat, making the dish rich and flavorful. Some versions may also include pork liver for added texture.
Can I add other ingredients to Pork Kilawin?
Yes, you can customize Pork Kilawin by adding ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, or radishes for freshness and crunch. Some variations also use coconut milk to create a richer, creamier dish.
How long should I marinate Pork Kilawin?
Pork Kilawin doesn’t need to be marinated for long—30 minutes to 1 hour in the vinegar mixture is enough to infuse the flavors. Over-marinating can overpower the dish and make the pork too sour.