Craving a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Adobong Pork Chop recipe! This classic Filipino dish is incredibly versatile, adaptable to your spice preferences, and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. It's the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly unforgettable meal. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Philippines with this quick and easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup cane vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 small onion, sliced (optional, for added flavor and visual appeal)
- 1-2 Thai chili peppers, thinly sliced (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Pork (Optional but Recommended)
For the best results, marinate the pork chops in half of the soy sauce, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step creates a delicious crust and seals in the juices.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Add the remaining soy sauce, vinegar, water, brown sugar (if using), sliced onions (if using), and chili peppers (if using) to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. Check the pork's internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Reduce and Serve
Once the pork is cooked, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to reduce the sauce to your desired consistency. You can leave it a bit saucier or reduce it to a thicker glaze. Serve hot with steamed rice. This delicious dish is perfect as a quick dinner idea or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Tips for the Best Adobong Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the pork chops in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, peppercorns, and chili peppers to your liking.
- Use bone-in pork chops: For an even richer flavor, use bone-in pork chops.
- Serve with sides: Adobong Pork Chops pair perfectly with steamed rice, pan-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Variations:
- Adobong Chicken: Substitute pork chops with chicken thighs or drumsticks for a leaner version of this dish.
- Adobong Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm or extra-firm tofu instead of pork. Press the tofu beforehand to remove excess water.
- Spicy Adobo: Add more chili peppers or a dash of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values. Generally, expect a moderate calorie count with a good source of protein and a range of vitamins and minerals from the soy sauce and vegetables.
Enjoy your homemade Adobong Pork Chops! This easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!