This Grilled Pork Belly (Inihaw na Liempo) recipe is a classic Filipino favorite known for its smoky flavor and tender, juicy meat. Marinated in a savory mixture of soy sauce, garlic, calamansi, and spices, the pork belly absorbs rich flavors before being grilled over hot charcoal until perfectly caramelized and slightly crispy on the outside. It is traditionally served with a tangy vinegar dipping sauce with chili and onions, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings, barbecues, or simple home meals. Pair it with warm steamed rice and enjoy a true taste of Filipino grilling tradition.
✅ Quick Tips: Read the recipe in its entirety before you start cooking. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand.
Best Filipino Grilled Pork Belly (Inihaw na Liempo) Easy Recipe
Description
Ingredients
Dipping Sauce
Instructions
-
Prepare the pork belly.
Wash the pork belly well and drain the water.
-
Make the marinade.
In a bowl, combine garlic, onion, soy sauce, calamansi juice or vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, oyster sauce, and cooking oil.
-
Marinate the pork belly.
Place the pork belly in the mixture and marinate for 1 to 3 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator so the flavor can fully absorb.
-
Prepare the charcoal.
Heat the charcoal until it reaches the right temperature for grilling.
-
Grill the pork belly.
Place the pork belly on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Occasionally brush it with the remaining marinade for better flavor.
-
Make sure it is fully cooked.
Once the color turns golden brown and the outside becomes slightly crispy, remove it from the grill.
-
Slice and serve.
Slice the pork belly and serve it with dipping sauce.
Dipping Sauce
-
Mix all ingredients of Dipping sauce and serve with the grilled pork belly.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 46g71%
- Saturated Fat 16g80%
- Cholesterol 72mg24%
- Sodium 720mg30%
- Total Carbohydrate 6g2%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 18g36%
- Iron 7 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Extra Notes and Tips
1. Marinating Time
For best flavor, marinate the pork belly overnight. This allows the seasoning to fully penetrate the meat.
2. Charcoal vs Gas Grill
Charcoal grilling gives the most authentic smoky flavor, but a gas grill or grill pan can also work well.
3. Avoid Burning the Meat
Because the marinade contains sugar, grill on medium heat and turn the pork belly frequently to prevent burning.
4. Rest Before Slicing
Let the grilled pork belly rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside the meat.
5. Best Side Dishes
- Steamed white rice
- Pickled papaya (Atchara)
- Tomato and salted egg salad
6. Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan or air fryer to restore crispiness.
