Inihaw Na Liempo
Lunch • Philippines
About Inihaw na Liempo
Grilled pork belly marinated in lemongrass, calamansi, and soy sauce
How to Make Inihaw na Liempo (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Inihaw na Liempo is a beloved Filipino dish featuring succulent pork belly marinated in a blend of native spices and grilled to smoky perfection. Rooted in Filipino street food culture, this dish is often the centerpiece of family gatherings, fiestas, and weekend lunches. Its irresistible aroma and savory-sweet flavor evoke the vibrant spirit of the Philippines, making it a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Filipino cuisine. What sets Inihaw na Liempo apart is its balance of flavors—umami from soy sauce, tanginess from calamansi (Filipino lime), sweetness from a touch of sugar, and a hint of spice from black pepper. Traditionally cooked over charcoal, the pork belly develops a crisp, caramelized exterior while remaining juicy inside. This makes Inihaw na Liempo a crowd-pleasing dish that truly showcases the art of Filipino grilling. For those seeking a healthier lunch option, this recipe uses leaner pork belly cuts, less sugar, and reduced sodium soy sauce without compromising the classic taste. It's a simple yet flavorful meal that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and fresh vegetables, delivering both satisfaction and a taste of Filipino heritage.
Ingredients(for 1/4 pound (approx. 115g) grilled pork belly with marinade)
- 250g Pork belly (liempo) (choose lean cuts)
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce (to reduce salt)
- 2 tablespoons Calamansi juice (or substitute with key lime)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 small Onion (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Banana ketchup (Filipino banana ketchup)
- 1 teaspoon Olive oil (for basting)
- 2 stalks Spring onions (chopped, for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine low-sodium soy sauce, calamansi juice, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, banana ketchup, and sliced onion. Mix well to create the marinade.
5 minutes
Marinating longer enhances flavor.
- 2
Add the pork belly to the marinade. Coat evenly, cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
5 minutes
Use a resealable bag for efficient marinating.
- 3
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove pork belly from marinade and drain excess liquid.
5 minutes
Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- 4
Grill pork belly for 8-10 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with leftover marinade mixed with olive oil. Cook until edges are caramelized and slightly charred.
20 minutes
Do not overcook to retain juiciness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing lean pork and grilling instead of frying makes this Inihaw na Liempo a heart-healthy option. The use of natural flavorings like calamansi and garlic boosts nutritional value without added calories. Portion control and mindful ingredients support weight management and general wellness, making it a smart choice for a balanced lunch.
This healthy Inihaw na Liempo recipe uses lean pork belly and reduced-sodium soy sauce to cut back on saturated fats and sodium. Garlic and onions add antioxidants, while calamansi juice is a good source of vitamin C. By grilling instead of frying, excess fat drips away, reducing overall calories per serving. This dish provides a balance of protein and healthy fats, making it suitable for those tracking macros.
Pro Tips
- 💡Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- 💡Slice pork evenly for uniform cooking.
- 💡Let the meat rest before slicing to retain juices.
Storage & Serving
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on a grill or skillet to restore texture.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 265.0 kcal |
| Protein | 17.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3.0 g |
| Total Fat | 21.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
