Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo

Ingredients

• 2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup cane vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 head garlic, cloves smashed
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• Optional: 1 tsp brown sugar

Instructions

1. 1

   Combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns in a bowl. Marinate 30 minutes to overnight.

2. 2

   Transfer everything to a heavy pot, add the water, and bring to a boil. Do not stir until the vinegar has boiled for a few minutes, or the sauce will taste raw and sharp.

3. 3

   Lower the heat, cover, and simmer 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is tender.

4. 4

   Remove the chicken. Raise the heat and reduce the sauce by about half until slightly syrupy. Add sugar now if using.

5. 5

   Heat oil in a skillet and brown the chicken pieces on both sides for 2 to 3 minutes.

6. 6

   Return the chicken to the reduced sauce and toss to coat.

7. 7

   Serve over steamed white rice with plenty of sauce spooned over.