| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 50 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 20g | 5g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 25g | 2g |
When it comes to comfort food that resonates with both nostalgia and new adventures, one dish that perfectly fits the bill is the Filipino Adobo with Annatto. Rooted in tradition yet open to global influences, this recipe melds the savory and tangy notes of classic Filipino adobo with the rich, earthy flavor of annatto oil. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I believe it will in yours too.
A Cultural Cornucopia
Although my culinary roots trace back to the warmth of Southern American cooking and the bold flavors of West African cuisine, the Filipino Adobo with Annatto offers a unique cross-cultural delight that resonates with my own Afro-Southern fusion philosophy. There’s something universally appealing about a dish that can bring together soy sauce, vinegar, and annatto oil to create a symphony of flavors that are both familiar and refreshingly different.
Health Benefits
Beyond its irresistible taste, this recipe also comes with a plethora of health benefits. The annatto oil is not just for color; it’s known for its antioxidant properties, which contribute to overall heart health. Garlic, a staple in many healthy diets, adds an immune-boosting component to the dish. Carrots and bell peppers add fiber and vitamins, making this meal a well-rounded nutritional option.
Pairing this dish with cooked white rice makes it a complete meal, but it can also be a part of a larger feast. Consider serving it alongside a fresh tropical fruit salad to keep the Filipino theme, or with a side of steamed vegetables to balance out the rich flavors.
If you’re a fan of hearty, aromatic dishes like Chicken Afritada or other types of stews and braises, you’ll find this Filipino Adobo with Annatto to be a wonderful addition to your repertoire. For those interested in exploring more global dishes loaded with flavor, I highly recommend diving into this detailed exploration of Filipino adobo or this take on chicken adobo from acclaimed food sites.
Every bite of this dish takes me on a journey, one that spans continents and cultures. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or someone looking to add some diversity to your weekly menu, this dish brings excitement to the table. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy making this flavorful masterpiece. After all, food is all about sharing, exploring, and delighting in the experience.
What You’ll Need
- 3 lbs chicken or pork, cut into serving pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup annatto oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Method
Step One
In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, water, and annatto oil. Mix well and add the chicken or pork pieces. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
Step Two
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken or pork pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
Step Three
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent.
Step Four
Return the browned chicken or pork to the pot. Add the marinade, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
Step Five
Add the potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper to the pot. Pour in additional water if needed to ensure the meat and vegetables are covered with liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat and vegetables are tender.
Step Six
Taste and season with salt as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Step Seven
Serve the Filipino Adobo with Annatto hot over cooked white rice. Enjoy!
