Pork adobo is a classic Filipino dish known for its savory and tangy flavors. It's relatively easy to make and requires a few key ingredients. Here's a simple recipe for pork adobo:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (1 kg) pork belly or shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup vinegar (white vinegar or cane vinegar are commonly used)
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pork, soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, and whole peppercorns. Mix well to ensure the pork is coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.
2. Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or a deep skillet over medium heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and reserve the marinade for later use. Sear the pork pieces in the hot oil until they are browned on all sides. This helps to develop the flavor and texture of the meat.
3. Once the pork is browned, pour in the marinade, along with the bay leaves and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the pork is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
4. Once the pork is tender, remove the lid and continue to simmer the adobo uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Taste the adobo and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Some prefer a saltier adobo, while others prefer it less salty. You can also add a bit of sugar or a sweetener of your choice if you prefer a slightly sweeter adobo.
6. Serve the pork adobo hot with steamed rice. It's traditionally enjoyed with rice, but you can also serve it with vegetables or on its own.
! DisclaimerNote: Pork adobo is even more flavorful when allowed to sit overnight, as the flavors continue to develop. Reheat it before serving to enjoy the full flavors.
