Elevate your adobo game: pineapple’s sweetness and tanginess in a classic dish

Chicken adobo is a beloved Filipino dish that is known for its savory and tangy flavor. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, and it remains a staple in Filipino households today. In this blog post, we will explore a unique variation of chicken adobo that incorporates the sweet and juicy flavors of pineapple.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup vinegar (white, apple cider, or rice vinegar)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup chopped pineapple
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, water, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and garlic. Mix well to coat the chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Cook the adobo: Transfer the chicken and marinade to a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the bay leaf and peppercorns. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat and simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
4. Add the pineapple: Stir in the chopped pineapple and continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve: Serve the chicken adobo with rice or your favorite side dishes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Variations

• Spicy adobo: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chili flakes or chopped chili peppers to the marinade.
• Creamy adobo: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk to the sauce after the chicken is cooked.
• Grilled adobo: Grill the marinated chicken over medium heat until cooked through. Then, add the sauce to a skillet and simmer until thickened. Pour the sauce over the grilled chicken.

Benefits of Pineapple in Adobo

In addition to its sweet and tangy flavor, pineapple offers several health benefits when added to chicken adobo:

• Contains bromelain: Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
• Rich in antioxidants: Pineapple is a good source of antioxidants, which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
• Low in calories: Pineapple is a relatively low-calorie fruit, making it a healthy addition to your meals.

Tips for the Best Chicken Adobo with Pineapple

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of your adobo. Opt for fresh chicken and pineapple, and use a good quality soy sauce and vinegar.
• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become dry and tough. Cook the chicken just until it is cooked through.
• Adjust the sweetness: The amount of brown sugar and pineapple juice you add will determine the sweetness of your adobo. Adjust the amounts to your taste.

Accompaniments for Chicken Adobo with Pineapple

Chicken adobo with pineapple pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including:

• Steamed rice
• Garlic rice
• Noodles
• Vegetables (such as sautéed broccoli, carrots, or green beans)
• Fried plantains

Wrapping Up

Chicken adobo with pineapple is an easy and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the health benefits of pineapple, make this recipe a winner. Experiment with different variations and accompaniments to find your favorite way to enjoy this Filipino classic.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be more flavorful, but breasts are a leaner option.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight. Longer marinating times will result in a more flavorful dish.

Q: Is it okay to add more pineapple?
A: Yes, you can add more pineapple to the adobo if you like. You can increase the amount of chopped pineapple or add a few pineapple slices to the pot.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make chicken adobo with pineapple ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will actually develop even more over time.

Q: What is the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the adobo for up to 3 months.