Adobo

A beloved and iconic dish in Philippine cuisine and an integral part of the Filipino culture.

picture of a traditional adobo

"Adobo refers to a method of marinating and stewing for any cut of meat or fish in a briny mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and spices."

history of Philippine adobo

History

In the Philippines, adobo existed before the Spanish arrived in 1521. Indigenous Filipinos used vinegar and salt to preserve proteins, similar to the people in the Iberian Peninsula. Chinese traders introduced soy sauce in the 9th century, which was later added to the marinade (early Filipino-style adobo is known as "white adobo" without soy sauce). Spanish colonizers named the Filipino method after their own adobo. This preservation technique is also used in kinilaw, a Filipino ceviche where raw fish is "washed" with vinegar before being marinated in vinegar or citrus.

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Cultural Significance

Adobo is not just a dish, but also a cultural symbol that represents the history and identity of the Philippines. It is widely popular in the country due to its versatility and simplicity, reflecting the resourcefulness of Filipinos in using available ingredients.

Adobo has become a staple in Filipino households, often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings, bringing people together and creating cherished memories.

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Adobo's cultural significance

Adobo Varieties and Recipes

Adobo is a dish with many permutations, all of which should be celebrated. Here are the most popular ones.

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