Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe is a tangy, sweet, and savoury marinade made with banana ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, and spices, perfect for grilled meats.
The inspiration to make this Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe came from watching traditional Filipino cooking shows showcasing authentic recipes.
Now, the step by step process will be shared to guide in making this delicious sauce at home, bringing a taste of the Philippines to any meal.
Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe is a vibrant blend of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours that perfectly complements grilled meats.
The main speciality lies in its use of banana ketchup, which adds a unique fruity sweetness not found in typical BBQ sauces.
Combined with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes and gochugaru, the sauce offers a balanced depth of flavor.
This combination creates a rich, bold taste that enhances every bite, making it a beloved staple in Filipino cuisine.
How To Prepare Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Filipino
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of sauce
Main Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- ½ cup banana ketchup
- ½ cup soda
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup vinegar (cane, white, or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or Worcestershire sauce as a substitute)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 inches ginger, sliced
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
How To Make Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe?
1. Get The Aromatics Going:
Start by heating some cooking oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced ginger. Cook everything, stirring occasionally, until the garlic smells amazing and the onions turn clear about 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Mix In The Liquids:
Add the banana ketchup, soda, soy sauce, vinegar, and calamansi juice to the pan. Give it a good stir to combine all those flavours.
3. Add The Seasonings:
Now, sprinkle in both amounts of brown sugar, oyster sauce, ground black pepper, gochugaru, and if you like a little extra heat, some red pepper flakes. Stir everything until the sugar has completely dissolved.
4. Let It Simmer:
Turn the heat up just enough to bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then lower it to a simmer. Leave it uncovered and let it bubble away for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring here and there. This step helps thicken the sauce and blend the flavours nicely.
5. Taste And Tweak:
Give the sauce a taste. If it needs a little salt, add a pinch. If you want it spicier, throw in more red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to let those adjustments settle in.
6. Cool Down And Enjoy:
Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool. Use it right away as a dipping sauce or marinade for grilled meats. If you have any leftover, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge it’ll stay good for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts Of Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Sugars | 16 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
Recipe Variations
➢ Swap banana ketchup for tomato ketchup to create a more familiar, slightly tangier flavor profile.
➢ Use honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetness and a smoother texture.
➢ Replace oyster sauce with fish sauce to add a stronger umami punch and saltiness.
➢ Add crushed pineapple juice for a fruity twist that enhances the sauce’s sweetness and acidity.
➢ Include smoked paprika to introduce a subtle smoky flavor without needing a grill.
Hot Tips
➣ Use cola or lemon lime soda for a subtle sweetness that caramelises nicely during grilling.
➣ Incorporate fresh ginger slices to add a warm, zesty kick that balances the sauce’s richness.
➣ Simmer the sauce slowly to concentrate flavours and avoid burning the sugars.
➣ Add red pepper flakes sparingly to introduce a gentle heat without overpowering the other ingredients.
➣ Marinate meat for at least 2 hours to allow the sauce to deeply infuse its bold flavours.
Usage Suggestions
This Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe works great as a marinade for pork, chicken, or beef before grilling, helping to tenderise and infuse the meat with rich flavor.
It also serves well as a dipping sauce for grilled skewers, fried snacks, or even vegetables. Drizzling this sauce over rice or using it as a glaze during cooking adds a delicious layer of taste.
Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe brings a sweet and tangy kick that elevates many traditional Filipino dishes.
Why We Love This Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe?
We love this Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe because it combines sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours in a delicious way.
The banana ketchup adds a unique fruity sweetness that makes the sauce stand out. The mix of vinegar and soy sauce brings a perfect balance, while garlic and spices add warmth and depth.
This sauce enhances grilled meats and other dishes, giving them an authentic Filipino taste that is bold, flavourful, and deeply satisfying every time.
How Long Does Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe Last In The Fridge?
Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe lasts up to one week in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. The vinegar and sugar help preserve its freshness, while refrigeration keeps it safe and flavourful.
Always use a clean spoon to scoop out the sauce to prevent contamination. Reheat only the amount needed, leaving the rest chilled.
Over time, the flavours deepen, making the sauce even richer and more delicious. Shake or stir before using to maintain a smooth, even consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Banana Ketchup With Regular Ketchup?
Yes, but banana ketchup gives the sauce its distinct Filipino flavor. Regular ketchup works in a pinch but may alter the taste.
What Kind Of Soda Should I Use?
Sweet sodas like cola or lemon lime soda are ideal, as they add sweetness and help tenderise meat.
Is This Sauce Spicy?
It can be. The spice level depends on how much gochugaru and red pepper flakes are added. Adjust to taste.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead Of Time?
Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to one week in a sealed container.
Is This Sauce Only For Grilling?
No, it also works as a dipping sauce, glaze, or stir in sauce for rice and noodle dishes.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed making this easy and delicious Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe as much as I did sharing it. It’s simple to prepare and delivers amazing flavor that will surely impress your family and friends.
I’m confident you’ll be inspired to try it soon please let me know how tasty it turns out once you’ve made it. Enjoy your cooking and the wonderful flavours of the Philippines!
You Might Also Like
Easy Homemade Dipping BBQ Sauce Recipe
Sorrel Cake Recipe || Best Ever
Dried Shiitake Mushroom Recipe | Healthy & Delicious
Healthy Celery Carrot Apple Juice Recipe
Easy Homemade Balsamic Vinegar BBQ Sauce Recipe
Filipino BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- ½ cup banana ketchup
- ½ cup soda
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup vinegar cane, white, or apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce or Worcestershire sauce as a substitute
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons calamansi juice or lemon juice
- 2 inches ginger sliced
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru Korean red pepper flakes
Instructions
Get The Aromatics Going:
- Start by heating some cooking oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced ginger. Cook everything, stirring occasionally, until the garlic smells amazing and the onions turn clear about 3 to 4 minutes.
Mix In The Liquids:
- Add the banana ketchup, soda, soy sauce, vinegar, and calamansi juice to the pan. Give it a good stir to combine all those flavours.
Add The Seasonings:
- Now, sprinkle in both amounts of brown sugar, oyster sauce, ground black pepper, gochugaru, and if you like a little extra heat, some red pepper flakes. Stir everything until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Let It Simmer:
- Turn the heat up just enough to bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then lower it to a simmer. Leave it uncovered and let it bubble away for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring here and there. This step helps thicken the sauce and blend the flavours nicely.
Taste And Tweak:
- Give the sauce a taste. If it needs a little salt, add a pinch. If you want it spicier, throw in more red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to let those adjustments settle in.
Cool Down And Enjoy:
- Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool. Use it right away as a dipping sauce or marinade for grilled meats. If you have any leftover, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge it’ll stay good for up to a week.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Sugars: 16 g | Sodium: 350 mg | Fat: 0.2 g | Protein: 0.5 g“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”