Chicken Adobo: The Ultimate Filipino Comfort Dish
There’s a reason every Filipino household has its own adobo story. Mine starts in a small kitchen where vinegar steamed against the windows and soy sauce stained the wooden spoon. Adobo is love simmered in salt, acid, and patience — a balance of bold flavor and quiet nostalgia.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken (thighs or drumsticks)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup vinegar
- 1 whole garlic bulb, crushed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp whole peppercorns
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate for 30 minutes or overnight.
- In a pan, heat oil and brown the chicken pieces on both sides for added flavor.
- Pour in the marinade and water. Cover and simmer for 35–45 minutes until tender and sauce thickens.
- Add brown sugar to balance the saltiness if desired. Stir well before serving.
Serving Tip
Best enjoyed with hot rice and shared with family.