Thai Pork Satay Recipe: How To Make The Perfect Skewers

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Thai cuisine as we embark on a culinary adventure to master the art of pork satay. This delectable dish tantalizes taste buds with its aromatic blend of spices, succulent pork, and irresistibly smoky char. Follow our comprehensive guide to elevate your home cooking and impress your loved ones with an authentic Thai delicacy.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the Pork Marinade:

• 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup red curry paste
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

For the Satay Sauce:

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander

For Skewering and Grilling:

• 12 wooden skewers
• Grill or grill pan

Prepare the Pork Marinade

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the pork marinade. Massage the marinade into the pork cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

Create the Satay Sauce

In a saucepan, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, red curry paste, lime juice, cumin, and coriander. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Skewer the Pork

Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the excess. Thread the pork cubes onto wooden skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.

Grill the Satay

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the pork skewers with oil and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

Assemble the Satay

Serve the grilled satay with the warm satay sauce for dipping. Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.

Perfect Your Technique

Marinate the Pork Overnight: For a more intense flavor, marinate the pork overnight. The longer the pork marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.

Use a Variety of Meats: Experiment with different cuts of pork, such as tenderloin or loin, for a unique taste experience.

Grill to Perfection: Grill the satay over medium-high heat to achieve a smoky char while preventing the pork from overcooking.

Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking and prevent the satay from steaming instead of grilling.

Elevate Your Dish

Add Vegetables: Thread your satay skewers with vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious addition.

Experiment with Sauces: Create a spicy satay sauce by adding chili powder or Sriracha. For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of brown sugar or add a touch of honey.

Serve with Sides: Complement your satay with traditional Thai sides such as sticky rice, cucumber salad, or papaya salad.

The Verdict: A Culinary Triumph

Mastering the art of Thai pork satay is a culinary triumph that will impress your family and friends alike. With its exotic flavors, succulent texture, and irresistible aroma, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Experiment with different marinades, sauces, and grilling techniques to create your own unique culinary masterpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken or beef instead of pork?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken or beef for pork in this recipe. However, adjust the marinating time accordingly, as chicken requires less time than pork and beef may require more.

Q: How do I know when the satay is cooked through?
A: Cut into a piece of pork to check for doneness. The meat should be cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have a grill?
A: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the satay in a grill pan or oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grill the satay for 10-15 minutes per side, or until cooked through.