Juicy Marinated Pork Kebabs

Grilling is such a fantastic way to prepare meals that burst with flavor, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with these Juicy Marinated Pork Kebabs (with Peanut Noodle Salad). Imagine tender pieces of pork, perfectly marinated to create a mouthwatering caramelized crust, all paired with a creamy, nutty noodle salad. As you gather your friends or family around the table, the aroma of the grilling meat will have everyone’s taste buds dancing with anticipation. Plus, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started on this delicious journey, where every bite is an explosion of flavor that’ll leave you craving more!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

Grilling is a wonderful way to infuse meats with bold flavors and create a satisfying dish. By marinating the pork in a blend of tamari, maple syrup, and sriracha, you achieve a deliciously flavorful exterior that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Complemented by a creamy peanut noodle salad, this recipe brings together textures and flavors that make it a delightful weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Marinated Pork Kebabs (with Peanut Noodle Salad)

These Juicy Marinated Pork Kebabs are not just about flavor; they offer a delightful balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes. Paired with a refreshing peanut noodle salad, this dish is family-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for summer cookouts or casual dinners. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons low-sodium tamari or soy sauce (divided)
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (divided)
• 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons fish sauce (divided)
• 1 tablespoon neutral vegetable oil
• 3-4 teaspoons sriracha (divided, plus more for serving)
• 2 garlic cloves (divided)
• 1 pound pork tenderloin or boneless skinless chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1 ½-inch chunks)
• 1 teaspoon coarsely chopped ginger
• ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• Salt (to taste)
• ½ cup water (plus more as needed)
• 8 ounces soba noodles or spaghetti
• 1 small red bell pepper (very thinly sliced)
• ½ small English cucumber (very thinly sliced)
• 1 cup lightly packed coarsely chopped fresh cilantro and/or mint (plus more for serving)
• ¼ cup thinly sliced scallions
• ¼ cup finely chopped peanuts

Marinate the Meat

Start by whisking together 3 tablespoons of tamari, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of sriracha in a medium bowl. Then, grate one garlic clove and add it to the mixture. Toss the pork pieces in the marinade until they’re well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or even up to 4 hours, for maximum flavor absorption.

Make the Peanut Dressing

In a mini food processor or high-speed blender, combine the remaining garlic clove and ginger, processing until finely chopped. Then, add the peanut butter, lime juice, remaining tamari, maple syrup, fish sauce, and 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha. Lightly season with salt, considering the saltiness of the fish sauce. Blend everything until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If it seems too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a little water to ensure a rich, creamy texture.

Cook the Noodles and Grill the Kebabs

Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While that heats up, bring a large pot of water to boil. Carefully thread the marinated pork onto skewers and pat them dry with paper towels. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water. Now, grill the kebabs, turning occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes until they are caramelized and cooked through.

Reserve about ¼ cup of the peanut dressing for serving. Then, toss the remaining dressing with the cooled soba noodles in a large bowl. Fold in the crispy sliced bell pepper, cucumber, fresh herbs, and scallions. Lastly, season the noodle salad with salt and pepper to taste, making it irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, place the soba noodle salad on a plate and set the grilled kebabs right on top or alongside. Drizzle the reserved peanut dressing over the kebabs and finish with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and extra herbs. If you like a little extra kick, keep some sriracha on the side for drizzling.

Tips for Success

• Allow the pork to marinate for at least an hour for a deeper flavor.
• Ensure the grill is properly preheated for optimal caramelization and grill marks.
• Adjust the sriracha quantity based on your spice preference.
• Serve the peanut dressing at room temperature for the best consistency.

Variations

• Swap chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
• Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the kebabs for extra flavor.
• Try using rice noodles or zoodles for a gluten-free alternative.

FAQs

What cut of pork is best for kebabs?
Pork tenderloin works great because it’s tender and cooks quickly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the pork and prepare the peanut dressing a day before serving.

Is it possible to grill the kebabs indoors?
Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan will work just fine if outdoor grilling isn’t feasible.

Can I freeze the marinated pork?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with these kebabs?
Consider pairing these kebabs with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or rice for a complete meal.

Juicy Marinated Pork Kebabs with Peanut Noodle Salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your palate and warms your heart. The juicy, caramelized kebabs combined with the creamy, flavorful noodle salad create a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend gathering, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy the layers of texture and flavor as you explore this delightful culinary path!

Print