Thai Style Ground Pork Skewers Recipe

Ground pork: The main protein for the skewers, providing a rich and juicy base.

Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the mixture.

Fish sauce: A salty and savory condiment essential for authentic Thai flavor.

Soy sauce: Contributes a deep umami taste and enhances the overall seasoning.

Sugar: Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.

Ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Cilantro: Fresh herb that brings a bright and citrusy note to the dish.

When forming the patties for the skewers, make sure to press them firmly but not too tightly. This helps them hold their shape while cooking and ensures even grilling. Additionally, soaking the skewers in water for about 30 minutes before threading the pork mixture onto them can prevent the skewers from burning on the grill.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is a leaner option and absorbs flavors well, making it a suitable substitute for ground pork.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is another lean alternative that works well in skewers and pairs nicely with Thai seasonings.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent.

• fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can mimic the salty and umami flavors of fish sauce, though it lacks the fishy undertone.

• fish sauce - Substitute with Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce has a complex flavor profile that can somewhat replicate the depth of fish sauce.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar taste and consistency.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos are a soy-free and slightly sweeter alternative to soy sauce.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile.

• sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness that complements the other ingredients well.

• ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can be used in the same quantity to provide a similar heat.

• chopped cilantro - Substitute with chopped parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous note similar to cilantro, though it lacks the citrusy undertone.

• chopped cilantro - Substitute with chopped basil: Basil offers a different but complementary flavor that works well in Thai cuisine.

• Allow the skewers to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the meat soggy.
• Place the cooled skewers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the skewers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, place the wrapped skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the skewers in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat the skewers on a grill or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the skewers in a microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Serve the reheated skewers with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Thai style ground pork skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the juicy texture of the ground pork.

• Microwave Method: Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the pork tough.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or vegetable oil. Place the skewers in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through. This method can give the pork a nice, slightly crispy exterior.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through. This method helps to retain the original grilled flavor of the Thai style ground pork skewers.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method is quick and helps to keep the pork juicy while giving it a slight crisp.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and mix all the ingredients together thoroughly.

• Garlic press: A tool to mince the garlic cloves efficiently.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper accurately.

• Chopping board: A surface to chop the cilantro and any other ingredients.

• Chef's knife: A sharp knife to chop the cilantro finely.

• Skewers: Used to thread the pork patties for grilling.

• Grill: A cooking device to grill the skewers to perfection.

• Tongs: Used to turn the skewers on the grill safely.

• Plate: To serve the cooked skewers hot.

• Basting brush: Optional, for applying any additional marinade or oil while grilling.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-made skewers: Buy pre-soaked wooden skewers to save time on preparation.

Batch mix: Combine and mix the ground pork and seasonings in one go to ensure even distribution.

Preheat the grill: Start preheating the grill while forming the patties to save time.

Make uniform patties: Use a small ice cream scoop to form uniform patties quickly and easily.