A rich and savory chicken dish from the island nation of the Philippines
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About Filipino Chicken Adobo
Chicken Adobo is a quintessential Filipino dish that boasts a rich history and holds a special place in Filipino culinary culture. This beloved dish features chicken marinated and simmered in a flavorful blend of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns, resulting in tender, savory-sweet chicken with a delightful tangy twist.
History of Filipino Chicken Adobo
Chicken Adobo has deep roots in Philippine history, dating back to the pre-colonial era. The cooking method of marinating meat in vinegar, salt, and spices was a practical means of preserving food in the tropical climate of the Philippines before the advent of refrigeration.
During the Spanish colonial period, the term "adobo" was derived from the Spanish word "adobar," meaning marinade or seasoning. Spanish colonizers introduced vinegar to the indigenous cooking methods, influencing the evolution of adobo into the dish known today.
Chicken Adobo has since become a staple in Filipino households and is enjoyed in various forms across the archipelago. Its versatility and simplicity have made it a favorite comfort food for generations of Filipinos, both at home and abroad.
Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Chicken (cut into serving pieces)
- 1/2 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/2 cup Vinegar (preferably cane or coconut vinegar)
-1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 head Garlic (minced)
- 3 Bay Leaves
- 1 teaspoon Whole Peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon Cooking Oil
- Salt to taste
- Steamed Rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, bay leaves, and whole peppercorns to create the marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
3. In a large skillet or pot, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use.
4. Brown the chicken pieces in the hot oil until lightly golden on all sides. This step adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.
5. Once the chicken is browned, pour in the reserved marinade. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
6. Cover and simmer the chicken for about 30 to 40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
8. Serve the Chicken Adobo hot over steamed rice, spooning the flavorful sauce over the chicken pieces.
Note: Chicken Adobo can be enjoyed immediately, but it tastes even better when allowed to sit for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together. Leftover Adobo also tends to taste even more delicious the next day.
Enjoy this classic Filipino dish that captures the essence of Filipino culinary heritage!
If you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or Pinterest – seeing your creations always makes my day. Let's explore international cuisine together!
If you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or Pinterest – seeing your creations always makes my day. Let's explore international cuisine together!
Are you interested in more flavors from South East Asia? Check out the recipes below
Cambodian Lok Lak - A dangerously declicious and peppery stir fry.
Vietnamese Bahn Cuon - A light pork stuffed rice paper dish typically eaten for breakfast.
Thai Pad Krapow - A spicy ground pork and holy basil dish.
North Korean Naengmyeon = A chilled beef noodle soup.
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