The Best Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Belly Bites

If you need an EASY hearty weeknight meal, I got you with these Filipino BBQ Pork Belly Bites!

These sweet and savory Filipino BBQ pork belly bites are like what you would find at the street markets in the Philippines. These pork belly bites are done in under 30 minutes and are perfect for an easy and quick weeknight meal. Get your rice ready as these pork belly bites are the perfect pair.

Filipino BBQ Pork Belly Bites are super easy to make, Did I mention under 30 minutes?

This is my first official new recipe post since becoming a family of 6! Things are just a bit more hectic and chaotic but every day is filled with more happiness and joy than the day before. I have been living off Air Fryer meals and this has been one of my favorites.

Things look a little different around here.. Filipino BBQ Pork to the rescue!

As a mom of 4 boys, days feel so long, but its so hard to find time to get anything done. If you're with me on this, Then I know are are looking for a quick and easy recipe like this! All you need to do is cut the pork belly and marinate and throw it in the Air Fryer to cook! These bites will be done cooking even before your rice!

Using Pre sliced Pork Belly for Filipino BBQ Pork Makes This Recipe Even EASIER!

I usually buy pre sliced pork belly that has the skin removed to make this meal easier and faster to prepare. I usually buy the pork belly around $4.99/lb at Costco.

Every Air Fryer is Different.

I have 4 Air fryers now, and my newest one that is featured in this recipe is from Our Place. (Click on the picture below to view the details) This pork belly may cook in as little as 12-15 minutes depending on your air fryer. For your first time making this recipe, I recommend cooking at 375, and turning it up to 385-400 for the last few minutes to char the bites. I would recommend at the 10 and 15 minute mark to always check on the progress of your pork belly for doneness.

What is Banana Sauce or Banana Ketchup?

Banana sauce, also known as banana ketchup, is a condiment that originated in the Philippines during World War II when tomato ketchup became scarce. It was created as a substitute for tomato ketchup using mashed bananas, vinegar, sugar, and spices.

In addition to its unique taste, banana sauce also offers some nutritional benefits. Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, which can contribute to a balanced diet.

Overall, banana sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a tropical twist to a wide range of dishes, making it a popular choice in Filipino cuisine and gaining popularity in other parts of the world as well.

Do I need to use pork belly with the skin removed to make Filipino Pork Belly Bites?

Most Asian markets that carry pork belly can help you remove the skin from the pork belly and slice into 1" thick strips, or cubes. Since 15-20 minutes is a shorter cooking time, it is not enough time to crisp up or soften the skin, so removing the skin is recommended. Another great option to find pre sliced pork belly with the skin removed is Costco!

Picking the right pork belly slab for Filipino Pork Belly Bites:

Since this a quick cook pork belly recipe, the best type of slab to use for this recipe is a slab that is on the leaner side. Look for a slab that has at least 60/40 meat to fat ratio, try to find one that does not have more fat than meat. The cook time does not allow all the fat to render off and break down. While it will still be tasty, it might be a little heavy to eat.

If you LOVE this Filipino Pork Belly Bites Recipe, here are some other Air Fryer recipes you might like. Check out these other Easy Air Fryer recipes:

• Honey Glazed Pork Belly
• Roast Pork
• Honey Teriyaki Pork Belly

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• or Oven

Ingredients

For the Marinade (save 3 tablespoon for basting)

•  1.5 lbs Pork Belly (Skinless & Cubed)
•  ⅓ cup Banana Sauce or Banana Ketchup or Ketchup
•  ¼ cup Brown Sugar
•  2 tbsp Soy Sauce 
•  1 tbsp Fish Sauce
•  ½ tbsp Oyster Sauce
•  ½ tbsp Datu Vinegar or White Vinegar
•  1 tbsp Garlic Powder (optional)
•  ½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

• 1. Slice pork belly into 1" strips. For best marinade absorption, poke holes with a fork or meat tenderizer on 2 sides of the meat
• 2. Combine and mix the following ingredients:⅓ cup Banana Sauce or Banana Ketchup, ¼ cup Brown Sugar, 2 tablespoon Soy Sauce, 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce, ½ tablespoon Oyster Sauce, ½ tablespoon Datu Vinegar, 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder (optional), ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 3. Set aside 3-4 tablespoon of the marinade for basting. Into a mixing bowl, combine sliced pork with the rest of the marinade. For best results, cover and refrigerate overnight, but marinate at least 10 minutes before cooking. If just marinating 10 minutes, be very generous with the marinade when basting

Air Fryer Cooking Instructions (Oven Cooking instructions below)

• 1. Preheat air fryer to 385F, and add in the cubed marinated pork belly. 
• 2. Add pork belly and set cook time for 12-15 minutes. 
• 3. After 5-7 minutes, flip and baste with the marinade sauce.
• 4. Medium Rare: 145-150 F (63-66 C) Medium: 150-155 F (66-68 C)Medium Well: 155-160 F (68-71 C)Well Done: 160 F (71C)
• 5. When the temp reaches 145F-160F you're done ! *Pork is safe to eat at 145F, but cook to your preference*
• 6. Enjoy!

Oven Cooking instructions

• 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F
• 2. Add pork belly and set cook time for 15-20 minutes
• 3. After 10 minutes, flip and baste with the marinade sauce.
• 4. Medium Rare: 145-150 F (63-66 C) Medium: 150-155 F (66-68 C)Medium Well: 155-160 F (68-71 C)Well Done: 160 F (71C)
• 5. When the temp reaches 145F-160F you're done ! *Pork is safe to eat at 145F, but cook to your preference*
• 6. Enjoy!

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