By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

Flavourful BBQ marinade with fresh herbs

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Pexels

Quick Answer

Thai Lemongrass Pork Marinade: Combine 2 stalks lemongrass (white part, finely sliced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), and more. Marinate 2 hours to 24 hours. Grill until internal temp reaches 63°C (145°F).

About This Marinade

This thai lemongrass marinade brings a fragrant, citrusy, aromatic flavour profile to your pork. Bash the lemongrass with the back of a knife before slicing to release the oils. The coconut cream helps the marinade cling to the meat.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Marinate Time

2 hours - 24 hours

Flavour Profile

fragrant, citrusy, aromatic

Best Cuts

chops (bone-in), loin steaks, tenderloin, belly strips, shoulder steaks

Ingredients

IngredientAmount
lemongrass (white part2 stalks
finely sliced)As needed
garlic (minced)3 cloves
fish sauce2 tbsp
soy sauce1 tbsp
lime juice2 tbsp
brown sugar1 tbsp
fresh ginger (grated)1 tbsp
red chilli (sliced)1
coconut cream2 tbsp
handful of coriander stemsAs needed

Pork is mild and takes on marinade flavours beautifully. Bone-in chops hold moisture better during marinating.

How to Make Thai Lemongrass Pork Marinade

  1. Combine: Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl or ziplock bag until well combined.
  2. Prep the pork: Pat the pork dry with paper towel. Trim any excess fat if needed.
  3. Marinate: Add the pork to the marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Refrigerate for 2 hours minimum, up to 24 hours for deeper flavour.
  4. Bring to temp: Remove from the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off. This helps it cook more evenly.
  5. BBQ: Shake off excess marinade and grill over high heat (220-260°C / 425-500°F) until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F).
  6. Rest: Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Thai Lemongrass Pork

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Best Pork Cuts for Thai Lemongrass Marinade

The best cuts of pork for this marinade are: chops (bone-in), loin steaks, tenderloin, belly strips, shoulder steaks.

Bone-in pork chops hold moisture better than boneless. The bone also adds flavour during cooking.

Try Our BBQ Cook Time Calculator

Get precise cooking times for any meat, cut, and method. Never over-cook or under-cook your BBQ again.

Open Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate pork in thai lemongrass marinade?

Marinate pork in thai lemongrass marinade for 2 hours minimum for noticeable flavour, or up to 24 hours for deeper penetration. Overnight in the fridge is ideal for most cuts.

Can I use thai lemongrass marinade on other meats?

Yes! Thai Lemongrass marinade works well on chicken and beef too. Adjust the marinating time based on the protein — prawns only need 15-30 minutes.

Should I marinate pork in the fridge or at room temperature?

Always marinate in the fridge for food safety. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature. Take the meat out 20-30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off for more even cooking.

What temperature should I BBQ thai lemongrass marinated pork?

Grill thai lemongrass marinated pork over high heat (220-260°C / 425-500°F). Cook until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F).

Related BBQ Guides

Sources & References

1
Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Official Australian guidelines for safe pork cooking temperatures.
Government
2
How to BBQ Right (YouTube)
Championship pork BBQ techniques from Malcom Reed.
Video
3
America's Test Kitchen (YouTube)
Tested methods for ribs, chops, and pulled pork perfection.
Video
4
Serious Eats
Food Lab science for smoking pork low and slow.
Reference