Authentic Thai Pork Satay with Peanut Sauce

Ingredients

500 grams of pork loin
2 lemongrass stalks, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 thumb size piece of ginger, grated
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of fish sauce
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
1 teaspoon of turmeric
1 teaspoon of coriander
1/2 teaspoon of cumin
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
200 ml of coconut milk
20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least an hour

Steps and instructions

Cut the pork loin into thin, long strips (about 1/2 inch wide and 2-3 inches long).
In a large bowl, mix the chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, turmeric, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, and coconut milk.
Add the pork strips to the bowl and mix well, ensuring that all pieces are covered in the marinade.
Cover the bowl with cling film and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium heat.
Thread the pork strips onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
Grill the skewered pork for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and slightly charred.
Remove from the grill and serve hot.

Tools for making

Cutting board - Used to safely cut and prepare the pork loin.
Knife - Essential for slicing the pork loin into thin strips.
Mixing bowl - Used to combine the marinade ingredients and coat the pork strips.
Grill or barbecue - The main cooking tool for grilling the pork satay skewers.
Bamboo skewers - Soaked in water to prevent burning, these are used to thread the marinated pork strips for grilling.
Cling film - Used to cover the bowl of marinating pork strips and keep them fresh in the refrigerator.

Recipe variations

Chicken Satay: Substitute chicken breast or thigh meat for the pork.
Beef Satay: Use thinly sliced beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, instead of pork.
Tofu Satay: Replace the pork with firm tofu, cut into cubes or strips.
Shrimp Satay: Use large shrimp or prawns, peeled and deveined, as an alternative protein.
Vegetable Satay: Grill a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms on skewers.
Spicy Satay: Add a dash of chili flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
Nutty Satay: Mix in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the marinade to enhance the nutty flavor.
Asian-inspired Satay: Infuse the marinade with flavors like sesame oil, lime juice, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Sweet and Sour Satay: Combine the marinade with a tablespoon of honey or pineapple juice for a tangy twist.
Herb-infused Satay: Add freshly chopped herbs like cilantro, basil, or mint to the marinade for a refreshing taste.

Recipe overview

Treat your taste buds to a delectable Southeast Asian classic with this simple and easy to follow Pork Satay recipe. This dish involves marinating strips of pork loin in a rich blend of spices, soy sauce, and coconut milk, before grilling them to perfection on skewers. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a delightful charred finish that's sure to impress at any barbecue or dinner party. The marinade, bursting with lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and a mix of spices, infuses the pork with an array of flavors that are distinctly Thai. This recipe takes around 2-3 hours to prepare, with additional marinating time for best results. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor a truly mouth-watering meal.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken, beef, or even shrimp if you prefer.
Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices? Yes, you can use ground turmeric, coriander, cumin, and cinnamon instead of whole spices. Adjust the quantities according to your taste.
Can I grill the pork satay indoors? Yes, you can use an indoor grill or a grill pan to cook the pork satay if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.
Can I use metal skewers instead of bamboo skewers? Yes, metal skewers can be used instead of bamboo skewers. Just be cautious as metal skewers may heat up quickly. If using metal skewers, remember to use oven mitts or tongs when handling them.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it to marinate the pork.
Can I freeze the leftover pork satay? Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork satay in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Can I serve this with a dipping sauce? Yes, you can serve the pork satay with a peanut dipping sauce or a sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grill or Barbecue - A grill or barbecue is needed to cook the pork satay skewers.
Bamboo Skewers - These skewers are essential for threading the marinated pork strips and grilling them.
Large Bowl - A large bowl is necessary for marinating the pork in the flavorful sauce.
Cling Film - Cling film is used to cover the bowl and marinate the pork in the refrigerator.
Knife - A knife is required to cut the pork loin into thin strips.
Cutting Board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting the pork and preparing the ingredients.

Origin stories

Satay is a popular dish in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The exact origin of satay is unclear, with some speculating it may have been introduced by Indian or Arab traders, while others believe it originated from within the region. What is known, however, is that over time it took on its own unique flavors and characteristics reflective of the cuisine in these countries. In Indonesia, it's often served with a peanut sauce and was considered food for the masses, sold on street corners and at public gatherings. Today, it remains a beloved dish not just in Southeast Asia, but around the world, revered for the rich, complex flavors achieved through simple grilling techniques and a variety of marinades.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.