Chicken Adobo – Filipino Style

Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken (thighs and drumsticks recommended)
• 1/3 cup Datu Puti Soy Sauce
• 1/3 cup Datu Puti Vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 medium onion, sliced (optional but adds sweetness)
• 6 cloves garlic, crushed
• 3–4 bay leaves
• 1 tsp whole peppercorns (or 1/2 tsp ground pepper)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for balance)
• 2–3 tbsp cooking oil
• (Optional) 2 potatoes, quartered
• (Optional) chopped scallions

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken
   In a bowl, combine the chicken, Datu Puti Soy Sauce, garlic, and bay leaves. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Brown the chicken
   Heat oil in a pot. Remove chicken from marinade (keep the marinade) and lightly brown the pieces on all sides.
3. Add aromatics
   Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened.
4. Add marinade + liquids
   Pour in the reserved marinade, Datu Puti Vinegar, water, peppercorns, and sugar (if using).
   Do not stir after adding the vinegar — let it boil first for about 3 minutes to keep the vinegar’s proper flavor.
5. Simmer
   Cover and simmer on low heat for 35–45 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce has reduced.
   If adding potatoes, add them during the last 20 minutes.
6. Optional: Reduce the sauce
   Remove chicken, increase heat, and let the sauce reduce until thick. Return chicken to coat.
7. Serve
   Serve hot with steamed rice. Sprinkle chopped scallions on top or add boiled eggs if desired.