Easy Grilled Pork Skewers Loaded with Flavor – A Must Try Recipe!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to creating grilled pork skewers that are not just any ordinary barbecue item, but a masterpiece of flavors and textures.

I wanted to create pork skewers that are juicy, delicious, and easy to cook.

So I came up with this recipe that combines boneless pork rib with flavorful marinade. In addition, a basting sauce is used to keep the meat from drying and enhance the taste.

Ingredients & Equipment

Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients and equipment needed for making grilled pork skewers.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Boneless Pork Rib: Trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces. Rib meat is the best option as it’s tender and flavorful, ideal for quick grilling. If not available you can also use other parts of pork.
• 3 tablespoons Olive Oil: Used in the marinade to help the spices adhere to the meat and add moisture.
• Lemon Zest from 2 Lemons: Adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the pork.
• 5 Garlic Cloves, Minced: Provides a strong, aromatic flavor that complements the spices.
• 1 tablespoon Ground Coriander Seeds: Offers a slightly sweet, citrusy layer to the marinade.
• 2 teaspoons Cumin: Brings a warm, earthy spice that pairs well with pork.
• 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg: A pinch enhances the depth of the other spices with its sweet, nutty flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon: Adds a subtle, sweet spiciness that works well with the savory elements.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons Melted Butter: Combined with honey for basting, adding richness and aiding in caramelization.
• 2 tablespoons Honey: Sweetens the basting sauce, to make a perfect glaze.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Grill alongside the pork for a juicy, charred side dish.
• 2 Lemons, Halved (that were zested earlier): Grilled for squeezing over the cooked skewers to add a zesty finish.

So why pork rib is the best option?

Using pork rib meat for these skewers is ideal because it offers a rich flavor and tender texture that stands up well to the high heat of grilling and the bold flavors of the marinade.

Equipment Needed:

• Grill (Gas or Charcoal): Essential for cooking skewers; choose based on preference, for ease, or flavor.
• Skewers: Necessary for threading the pork and vegetables. I recommend using metal skewers. If wooden, soak them to prevent burning.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing marinades and sauces.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
• Grill Brush: For cleaning the grill before and after cooking.
• Tongs: Helps in handling the skewers safely.
• Basting Brush: Used to apply the butter and honey mixture during grilling.
• Meat Thermometer: To make sure that the pork chops are grilled to the correct internal temperature for safe and optimal doneness.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Let’s begin by creating a marinade that will infuse the pork with vibrant flavors and aromas.

Mix olive oil, fresh lemon zest, and minced garlic with ground coriander, cumin, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Add salt and pepper to taste, and marinate the pork for at least an hour to allow the flavors to sink in.

Step 2:  Assemble the Skewers

Thread the pork and cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Also, cut the zested lemon into half.

If you want the pork to cook a bit faster, leave a small space between each piece to allow heat to circulate fully.

I only had 5 skewers so I had to stuff them full!

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.

Step 3: Prepare the Basting Sauce

Create a basting sauce by combining melted butter with honey.

This mixture will be brushed onto the pork skewers during grilling to enhance flavor and create some nice caramelization.

The sweetness of the honey pairs beautifully with the spices in the marinade, adding a delightful glaze to the finished skewers!

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium heat and make sure that grates are brushed clean.

Then place the pork skewers on the grill, and cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, turning once.

After turning the pork skewers, add the tomatoes and lemon halves to the grill.

Use the prepared basting sauce to brush the pork skewers frequently during cooking. This adds flavor and helps keep the pork moist.

After the grilling the pork for about 20 minutes total, it should be ready. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the pork is cooked through before removing from the grill. It should register at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

When the pork is properly grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes off the grill.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled pork skewers with the cherry tomatoes and lemon halves on a platter.

When serving, the grilled lemon halves should be squeezed over the pork, for a fresh, zesty flavor that enhances the spices in the skewers.

The combination of flavors from the smoky, spiced pork and the sweetness of the tomatoes creates a satisfying, balanced meal!

You can also add some rice, potatoes, salad, or other side dishes of choice.

I have to say these were some of the best pork skewers I have tasted. And this is not just my opinion, everyone on the table agreed on this.

So I hope you will try this recipe and find it as delicious as we did!

Happy Grilling!

-Joonas