She Strengthens

Uncovering the Flavors of Adobo

When the word “adobo” comes to mind, many people think of a rich, flavorful Mexican stew. But did you know that adobo has a long history in the Philippines, where it’s considered a national dish? In fact, Filipino cooks believe that their version, known as adobong, originated independently of its Mexican counterpart.

A Dish Born of Necessity

Adobo cooking likely originated as a way to preserve food in the absence of refrigeration. By cooking in vinegar, cooks could inhibit bacterial growth and store food at room temperature. This technique has been adopted by many cultures, including the Spanish, Chinese, and Filipinos.

Filipino-Style Adobong Recipe

This recipe serves 4-6 people and showcases the classic flavors of adobong.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large head of garlic, cloves crushed
• 2 ounces fresh ginger, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 6 chicken legs (1 1/2 to 2 pounds), separated at the joint, thighs and drumsticks halved through the bone crosswise
• 1/2 cup coconut vinegar or Chinese white rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup Chinese light soy sauce
• 5 scallions, root and dark green ends trimmed, and 6-inch stalks cut into 1-inch-long pieces
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 2 fresh bay leaves

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large clay or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. Stir-fry the garlic and ginger until fragrant and golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, scallions, peppercorns, bay leaves, and 1/4 cup water.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the chicken is fork-tender and the juices have reduced by half, about an hour.
5. Serve the chicken over rice with a sautéed vegetable on the side, or refrigerate it overnight and reheat the next day.

Tips and Variations:

• To make a “family-style” adobong, use a whole 2 1/2 pound chicken and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• For a spicy kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Pair your adobong with a bright, citric wheat beer like Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat to balance out the rich flavors.

The Art of Adobo

Adobo cooking is an art form that requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment. By embracing this traditional technique, you can unlock a world of flavors and create dishes that are both familiar and innovative. So go ahead, give adobong a try, and discover the rich flavors of the Philippines!