Classic Pork Adobo Recipe with Vanilla Flavored Brown Sugar Glaze

Pork adobo is a quintessential dish in Filipino cuisine, renowned for its savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. This Classic Pork Adobo Recipe with a twist of vanilla-flavored brown sugar glaze elevates the traditional recipe into a delightful culinary experience. The addition of vanilla brown sugar not only enhances the flavor but also adds a unique aromatic quality that is simply irresistible.

Ingredients

2 lbs pork belly or pork shoulder, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
½ cup soy sauce
½ cup white vinegar
1 cup water
1 medium onion, sliced
5 cloves garlic, minced
3 bay leaves
1 tsp black peppercorns
½ cup brown sugar (preferably vanilla-flavored)
2 tbsp cooking oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped green onions or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Pork: In a large bowl, combine the pork cubes, soy sauce, vinegar, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Mix well, ensuring the pork is thoroughly coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors.
Sauté the Pork: Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Remove the pork from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and sear the pork pieces until they are browned on all sides. This step is crucial as it adds depth to the flavor.
Add the Marinade: Pour in the reserved marinade, followed by the water, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 40-50 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well combined.
Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar with a splash of water to create a syrup-like consistency. Once the pork is tender, remove the lid and stir in the vanilla-flavored brown sugar. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro. Serve the Classic Pork Adobo over steamed rice to soak up the rich sauce, or with crusty bread for a delightful meal.

Cooking Tips

Choosing the Right Cut of Pork: Pork belly will yield a richer flavor and tender texture, while pork shoulder is leaner and still very flavorful. Choose based on your preference!
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or use regular brown sugar instead of vanilla-flavored.
Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the pork, the more flavorful it will become. Overnight marination is highly recommended.
Storing Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days and flavors deepen over time. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Classic Pork Adobo, consider serving it with:

Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a fragrant base.
A side of pickled vegetables to add a refreshing crunch.
A simple green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute pork with firm tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian adobo. The marinating and cooking process remains the same.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced chili peppers to the marinade or glaze for an extra kick.

This Classic Pork Adobo with Vanilla Flavored Brown Sugar Glaze not only tantalizes the taste buds but also showcases the beauty of Filipino cooking. The aromatic blend of savory and sweet flavors will surely impress your family and friends, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering.

For more culinary adventures and to expand your cooking repertoire, explore these incredible Filipino recipes. By experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, you can create your own signature dishes that reflect your personal cooking style. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with others!

Incorporate this delightful recipe into your meal rotation and enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic dish with a modern twist!