Chicken Adobo Recipe, A One-Pot Filipino Comfort Meal

One-pot meals are a godsend at the end of a long and tiring day when you crave something delicious and hearty but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. The beauty of one-pot dishes lies in their simplicity and convenience. With just a single pot or skillet, you can create a complete meal packed with flavours and textures. The aromas that fill the kitchen as the ingredients simmer and meld together are comforting, creating a sense of anticipation for the meal that awaits. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since you only have one pot to wash. Whether you're cooking for yourself, and your family, or even hosting friends, one-pot Filipino chicken adobo is a fantastic choice to satiate your hunger and provide a satisfying and nourishing end to a busy day.

Chicken adobo is a beloved dish that hails from the Philippines, a country known for its vibrant and flavorful cuisine. Adobo is a traditional cooking method in Filipino cuisine, where meat or vegetables are braised in a tangy and savoury sauce. The dish has deep historical roots and has become a staple in Filipino households and a favourite among food enthusiasts worldwide. With its simple preparation and delicious taste, one-pot chicken adobo is a go-to choice for a quick and easy meal.

Adobo, in particular, holds a special place in Filipino cuisine. Its roots can be traced back to the pre-colonial era when the indigenous people of the Philippines preserved their meat in vinegar and salt to extend its shelf life in the tropical climate. The term "adobo" itself is derived from the Spanish word "adobar," which means to marinate or preserve.

Filipino adobo typically consists of meat, such as chicken, pork, or even seafood, marinated in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. The marinated meat is then braised until tender, allowing the flavours to meld and intensify.

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Ingredients:

  • 1 kg of chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless)
  • ½ cup vinegar (preferably white cane vinegar)
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 6 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • Salt to taste

Method:

  • In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
  • Pour in the vinegar and soy sauce. Add the whole black peppercorns and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to combine.
  • Cover the pot and let the chicken simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the flavours have melded together.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
  • Serve the one-pot chicken adobo with steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro, if desired.