Delightful Chicken Adobo: A Garlicky and Delicious Filipino Dish

Chicken Adobo is a renowned Filipino dish known for its distinctive blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. This delectable dish involves marinating chicken in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then simmering it to perfection. The resulting tender and flavorful chicken is perfect served over steamed rice.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900 g) chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) soy sauce
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
• 1 head garlic, crushed
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, crushed garlic, sliced onions, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for better flavor.
2. Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and brown the chicken pieces in the hot oil until they are golden brown on all sides. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the chicken is browned, add the reserved marinade, water, and brown sugar (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
5. If the sauce is too thin, uncover the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce it to your desired consistency.
6. Once done, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
7. Serve hot Chicken Adobo over steamed rice, and enjoy!