THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Authentic Filipino Pork Adobo
This classic Filipino dish brings together tender pork simmered in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. It’s simple to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends any day of the week.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Authentic Filipino Pork Adobo
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by combining the pork belly and pork loin in a big bowl. Drizzle in a tablespoon of groundnut oil and toss everything together so the meat gets nicely coated. Then add the garlic, ginger, red chile, peppercorns, brown sugar, bay leaves, and cumin. Mix in the diced apple, cider vinegar, and soy sauce, making sure the pork is well covered in the marinade. Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour, stirring every now and then to let those flavors really soak in.
02
Step 2
When you’re ready to cook, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss in the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms, and cook them until they soften, about 5 minutes. Next, add the pork along with all the marinade and cook until the pork starts to brown, which should take around 6 minutes.
03
Step 3
Pour in the lemonade, stir in the cornstarch and bouillon, making sure the sauce covers the pork and veggies. Turn the heat down, cover the pan, and let everything simmer gently for about an hour. The sauce should reduce and the pork will become tender but still a little pink in the center. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for 145°F (63°C) inside. About 10 minutes before it’s done, stir in the last tablespoon of butter. Don’t forget to fish out the bay leaves before you serve.
Why you’ll love it
This dish is a perfect blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that come together in a rich, tender pork stew. It’s a comforting meal that reminds many of home-cooked family dinners and offers a delicious taste of Filipino culture.
How to serve
Serve this with steamed white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also pair it with sautéed vegetables or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Adding some boiled eggs or fried plantains can make the dish even more satisfying.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
