What is adobo?
Adobo is a popular Filipino dish typically made with meat, such as pork or chicken, marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, and then simmered until the meat is tender and flavorful. It is considered the unofficial national dish of the Philippines and its name comes from the Spanish word “adobar,” which means to marinate or season.
Adobo is a dish that gets its tangy, savoury, and slightly sour flavour from a blend of soy sauce and vinegar. It typically contains garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns, which give it a unique taste. Adobo can be made using different meats or vegetables, and there are several regional variations in the Philippines.
Adobo is a popular Filipino dish that is commonly paired with steamed rice. It has a satisfying and comforting flavour, and can be eaten hot or cold. It is commonly eaten during family gatherings, celebrations, and everyday meals in Filipino homes. Adobo is cherished for its simplicity, versatility, and delicious taste, and is considered a staple in Filipino cuisine.
Chris’ Spicy Pork Adobo Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup vinegar (preferably white cane vinegar)
- ½ cup root beer
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 4 Thai bird’s eye chilis, sliced
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions:
- Heat the cooking oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the pork shoulder chunks and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in the soy sauce, vinegar, root beer, and water. Stir to combine.
- Add the bay leaves, black peppercorns, and Thai bird’s eye chilis to the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid.
- Simmer the adobo for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir in the brown sugar and continue to simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, vinegar, or sugar to your preference.
- Serve the pork adobo hot over steamed white rice and enjoy the deliciously sweet and spicy flavours of this unique twist on a Filipino favourite!
Note: If you prefer a milder heat level, you can reduce the amount of Thai bird’s eye chilis or remove the seeds and membranes before slicing them. Adjust the amount of root beer and sugar to your desired sweetness level as well.
Final Thoughts
I really hope you enjoy my take on Filipino adobo with a much-needed spicy kick. The sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours of this dish combine to make an unforgettable meal that your family will love. Give it a try and add your own personal touches to make it even more special. Enjoy!
