Adobo is a classic Filipino dish that brings together savory and tangy flavors in a delightful medley that will surely satisfy your taste buds. This versatile recipe can be made with various proteins, such as chicken, pork, or tofu, and is perfect for serving over a steaming bowl of rice. The key to a delicious adobo lies in the perfect balance of soy sauce, vinegar, and aromatic spices that come together to create a mouthwatering sauce. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting and flavorful dish at home.
**Filipino Chicken Adobo**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
– 3 bay leaves
– 1 tablespoon oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Steamed rice, for serving
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight for the best flavor.
2. **Sear the Chicken:** Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Saute the Aromatics:** In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions until they turn translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Simmer the Chicken:** Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet. Pour in the reserved marinade and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a touch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter adobo.
6. **Serve:** Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove the bay leaves and peppercorns. Serve the adobo hot over steamed rice, garnished with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness.
7. **Enjoy Your Homemade Chicken Adobo:** Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Filipino classic that will transport you to the bustling streets of Manila with every bite. The tender chicken infused with the tangy and savory sauce is a true crowd-pleaser that is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests.
Cooking up a batch of Filipino Chicken Adobo is a wonderful way to explore the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine right in your own kitchen. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors that will surely become a regular on your meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to savor the heartwarming taste of homemade adobo.
