Crispy Tamarind-Spiced Pork Skewers with Peanut Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender pork marinated in tamarind and lemongrass, grilled to perfection and served with a creamy peanut sauce and steamed jasmine rice. This thai-inspired grilling (gluten-free, high-protein) ready in about 40 minutes blends cut into 1-inch cubes pork shoulder, tamarind paste, minced garlic into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.7 (15 ratings) Prep: 25 min Cook: 15 min Serves 6 Thai cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes, with 3 tbsp tamarind paste, 2 grated lemongrass stalks, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp fish sauce, and 1/2 cup coconut milk. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Step 2: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the pork onto skewers and grill for 6-8 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
  3. Step 3: While the pork grills, whisk 1/2 cup roasted and ground peanuts with 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 seeded jalapeño, and 1/4 tsp salt to make the peanut sauce. Serve the skewers with the sauce and steamed jasmine rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Crispy Tamarind-Spiced Pork Skewers with Peanut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (25 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Crispy Tamarind-Spiced Pork Skewers with Peanut Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crispy Tamarind-Spiced Pork Skewers with Peanut Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crispy Tamarind-Spiced Pork Skewers with Peanut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Crispy Tamarind-Spiced Pork Skewers with Peanut Sauce gluten-free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten-free, high-protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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