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Pork/Filipino

Filipino Pork Adobo Recipe

Tender, tangy, and savory, this Filipino Pork Adobo recipe is a flavorful family favorite.

75 min total
Serves 4
Easy
Dairy-Free
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
1h
Total Time
1h 15m
Filipino Pork Adobo
Photographed for KrazyRecipes · Pork
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Picture a pot on the stove gently simmering, the aroma of garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar swirling through the kitchen, wrapping you like a warm culinary hug. That's the magic of Filipino Pork Adobo, a dish that beautifully balances tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes. Each bite offers a taste of comfort, and the tender chunks of pork practically melt in your mouth. This is not just a meal—it's a memory served on a plate. Adobo, an iconic dish in Philippine cuisine, has simple roots, yet it boasts a complexity of flavors that are nothing short of extraordinary. Originating from a method of preserving food using vinegar, it evolved over centuries, drawing influences from various cultures, yet it remains distinctly Filipino. For me, it's a dish that brings back Sunday family dinners, where stories were shared as eagerly as the food. What makes this recipe truly stand out is the marinade magic—a trick I learned from my grandmother. Marinating the pork overnight allows the flavors to deeply infuse, ensuring that every bite is bursting with taste. Whether you're serving it for a casual family dinner or at a larger gathering, this dish is sure to win hearts. Serve it with steaming white rice to soak up the luscious sauce, and you'll have an unforgettable meal that feels like a culinary embrace.

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The Method

Step-by-Step

6 steps · tap a timer to start
  1. 01
    Step 1 / 6

    In a large bowl, combine pork, soy sauce, half of the crushed garlic, and black peppercorns.

    Mix well, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

  2. 02
    Step 2 / 6

    Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

    Add the remaining garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.

  3. 03
    Step 3 / 6

    Add the marinated pork to the pot, reserving the marinade.

    Brown the pork on all sides for about 5 minutes, letting each side develop a nice crust.

  4. 04
    Step 4 / 6

    Pour in the reserved marinade, vinegar, water, bay leaves, and brown sugar.

    Stir gently, then bring to a boil.

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  6. 05
    Step 5 / 6

    Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

  7. 06
    Step 6 / 6

    Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, if necessary.

    Remove bay leaves, garnish with chopped scallions, and serve hot over rice.

Chef Tips

  • For maximum flavor, marinate the pork overnight.
  • If you prefer your adobo with a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
  • Add a touch more sugar if you like your adobo on the sweeter side.
  • Use coconut vinegar for a more traditional taste if it's available.
  • Leftovers can be reheated, and many say adobo tastes even better the next day.
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Nutrition (per serving)

calories
~450 kcal
protein
35g
carbs
12g
fat
28g
fiber
1g
sodium
900mg

Estimates only. Actual values depend on brands and portions.

Frequently Asked

Can I make this ahead?+

Yes, pork adobo can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting overnight.

What can I substitute?+

You can use chicken in place of pork, or mix both for a delicious variation.

How do I store leftovers?+

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

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