Pro Tips

**Chef's Tips & Troubleshooting:**

- Brush the grill grates with oil before cooking to prevent the meat from sticking.

- Let grilled meat rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute evenly.

- Baste the meat with oil or marinade while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Cook tomato-based pork stews until the oil rises to the surface for concentrated flavor.

Cooking Tips

Let the meat rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before grilling so it cooks evenly from edge to center. Baste the marinade on during the last few minutes of grilling — applying it too early can char the sugars and create bitter flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

No soy sauce? Use tamari (gluten-free), coconut aminos (paleo-friendly), or a mix of fish sauce and water for a different but delicious umami profile. For a low-sodium version, use light soy sauce or dilute regular soy sauce with a splash of water or broth. Pork alternatives: Chicken thighs work well in most pork recipes (they stay moist like pork does). For a leaner option, use turkey breast or firm tofu. Short on time? A pressure cooker (Instant Pot) can reduce cooking time by roughly half for most braised and stewed Filipino dishes. Reduce liquid slightly since less evaporates.

Storage & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened during storage. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

Grilled Ribs with Pico de Gallo

Grilled Ribs with Pico de Gallo

Metro Manila, International

Ribs with pico de gallo marinated and grilled to perfection — smoky, charred, and succulent. A Filipino barbecue-style preparation.

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Total: 50 min Medium Serves 5

Instructions

  1. Combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, chili powder, ground black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Mix well.
  2. Place the spare ribs in a resealable bag. Pour-in the mixture and then marinate for at least 6 hours.
  3. Make the basting sauce by pouring the remaining marinade in a bowl. Add the ketchup. Stir.
  4. Grill the spare ribs for about 8 to 10 minutes per side. You can rotate the ribs to prevent it from getting dry or burnt. Make sure to baste the ribs when rotating.
  5. Transfer to a serving plate. Serve with pico de gallo.

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Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

**Chef's Tips & Troubleshooting:**
- Brush the grill grates with oil before cooking to prevent the meat from sticking.
- Let grilled meat rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute evenly.
- Baste the meat with oil or marinade while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Cook tomato-based pork stews until the oil rises to the surface for concentrated flavor.

Cooking Tips

Let the meat rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before grilling so it cooks evenly from edge to center.
Baste the marinade on during the last few minutes of grilling — applying it too early can char the sugars and create bitter flavors.

Substitutions

No soy sauce? Use tamari (gluten-free), coconut aminos (paleo-friendly), or a mix of fish sauce and water for a different but delicious umami profile.
For a low-sodium version, use light soy sauce or dilute regular soy sauce with a splash of water or broth.
Pork alternatives: Chicken thighs work well in most pork recipes (they stay moist like pork does). For a leaner option, use turkey breast or firm tofu.
Short on time? A pressure cooker (Instant Pot) can reduce cooking time by roughly half for most braised and stewed Filipino dishes. Reduce liquid slightly since less evaporates.

Storage & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened during storage. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.
R

Tita Liza Reyes

Heirloom Recipes & Modern Adaptations

Tita Liza Reyes is a contributor to the UlamDaily editorial team. A retired school teacher from Batangas with over 30 years of home cooking experience, she helps document and adapt heirloom recipes from across the Philippines for today's kitchen.

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