1. Marinate the Pork:
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, black peppercorns, and bay leaves.
- Add the pork cubes and mix well to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse into the pork.
2. Cook the Adobo:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Remove the pork from the marinade (discard the marinade) and add the pork cubes to the hot oil. Sear until the pork is browned on all sides.
- Add the sliced onion (and bell pepper if using) to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Pour in 1 cup of water, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
3. Season and Serve:
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer the Adobong Baboy to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve hot over steamed white rice.
Tips for Success
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the pork overnight. This allows the pork to absorb the flavors more deeply.
- Flavor Adjustments: Adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste. Some prefer a sweeter or more tangy adobo, so feel free to tweak the recipe according to your preference.
- Thickening Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, the cornstarch slurry is a great option. You can also let the sauce simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally.
Conclusion
Adobong Baboy is a flavorful and hearty dish that embodies the essence of Filipino comfort food. Its combination of savory pork, tangy vinegar, and aromatic spices makes it a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this recipe will bring a taste of the Philippines to your table. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Adobong Baboy and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire.
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