When it comes to adding flavor and excitement to your meals, few ingredients can rival the power of adobo sauce. This savory condiment originated in Latin America, where it’s often used as a marinade or a finishing touch for meats, vegetables, and even grains. And when you add a spicy kick to the mix, the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re looking for a bold and zesty flavor profile or a sweet and tangy twist, there’s an adobo sauce recipe out there for you.
From classic chicken dishes to more adventurous options like shrimp and tofu, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering spicy adobo sauce recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to unleash the flavor with these spicy and savory adobo sauce creations.
Classic Chicken Adobo with Spicy Sauce
Classic Chicken Adobo with Spicy Sauce Recipe
This Filipino-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, with tender chicken cooked in a rich and spicy sauce that’s perfect for serving over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Adobo with Garlic and Vinegar
Savor the rich flavors of the Philippines with this simple yet flavorful pork adobo recipe, infused with the pungency of garlic and tanginess of vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or cane sugar)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, combine pork, garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and bay leaf.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add black pepper and salt to taste; continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Shrimp Adobo in Tangy Sauce
A classic Filipino dish gets a flavorful twist with this shrimp adobo recipe, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a tangy and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic, onion, vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Add the water to the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Adobo with Soy and Chili
This classic Filipino dish combines tender beef, savory soy sauce, and spicy chili peppers to create a bold and flavorful stir-fry. With its rich aroma and deep umami taste, Beef Adobo with Soy and Chili is a staple in many Asian cuisines.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2-3 dried red chili peppers, crushed or 1-2 tsp hot sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic, onion, and chili peppers (or hot sauce). Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, vinegar, and cooked beef back to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Adobo with Adobo Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic Filipino-inspired dish that combines tender vegetables with the rich flavors of adobo sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to complement your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes, and onions)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the adobo sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Adobo-Marinated Grilled Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of the Philippines with this simple and delicious recipe. Adobo is a classic Filipino marinade made with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup adobo marinade (see below)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Adobo Marinade:
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together adobo marinade ingredients.
2. Place chicken in a shallow dish and pour marinade over it. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Spicy Adobo Pulled Pork Tacos
Add a kick to your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe featuring tender pulled pork smothered in a spicy adobo sauce and served in crispy tacos.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork shoulder, adobo sauce, chili flakes, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in any remaining sauce from the pot.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled pork onto warmed tortillas, topping with your favorite fixings (such as lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream).
Cook Time: 4-5 hours
Adobo Glazed Salmon Fillets
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salmon, this recipe combines the bold flavors of adobo with a sticky glaze that’s sure to please. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Place salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the adobo glaze evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Adobo Sauce Braised Short Ribs
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of slow cooking with the bold flavors of adobo sauce, resulting in fall-off-the-bone short ribs that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add adobo sauce, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Adobo Infused Beef Stew
Savor the rich flavors of the Philippines with this hearty beef stew infused with the aromatic spices of adobo sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from pot; set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the adobo sauce, beef broth, red wine (if using), and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Return the beef to the pot; cover and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Adobo Sauce Chicken Wings
Add a flavorful twist to your chicken wings with this Filipino-inspired Adobo sauce recipe.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, fish sauce (if using), and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the wings from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the wings in batches until browned, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Transfer the cooked wings to a baking dish and drizzle with Adobo sauce (see below). Toss the wings to coat evenly.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Adobo Sauce:
Combine soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and garlic in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
Adobo Flavored Rice Bowl
A flavorful and savory rice bowl infused with the bold taste of adobo sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go. This recipe is a simple twist on traditional rice bowls, adding a depth of flavor from the adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: protein of your choice (chicken, beef, tofu, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add adobo sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine with onion and garlic mixture.
6. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in adobo mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your preferred protein if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Adobo Marinated Tofu Stir-Fry
Get ready to experience the bold and savory flavors of the Philippines with this easy-to-make Adobo Marinated Tofu Stir-Fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the tofu from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Stir-fry the tofu until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Adobo Sauce Pork Belly Sliders
Elevate your slider game with this sweet and savory fusion of pork belly, adobo sauce, and crispy buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1/2-inch thick strips
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together adobo sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork belly strips.
4. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the pork belly strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and crispy.
7. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on a grill or in oven.
8. Assemble sliders by placing cooked pork belly on toasted buns, topped with shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Adobo Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the bold flavors of the Philippines! This Adobo Glazed Meatball recipe combines classic beef meatballs with the sweet and sour charm of traditional Filipino Adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Adobo Glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare Adobo Glaze by combining soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with Adobo Glaze. Return to oven and bake an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Adobo Sauce Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your roasted vegetables with the bold flavors of adobo sauce, adding a depth and richness to this classic dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, cumin, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together adobo sauce and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the adobo mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Adobo Style Grilled Corn on the Cob
This recipe adds a twist to traditional grilled corn by incorporating the bold flavors of adobo seasoning, perfect for those who love a little spice. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious side dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning (containing chili peppers, garlic, oregano, cumin, and paprika)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and adobo seasoning.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, with lime wedges optional.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Adobo Sauce Infused Chili Con Carne
Elevate your chili game with this bold and savory recipe that combines the rich flavors of adobo sauce with classic chili con carne. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add adobo sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouthwatering adobo sauce recipes! From classic chicken and pork dishes to seafood, beef, and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to add a tangy and savory twist to grilled meats, soups, stews, and even vegetables. Learn how to marinate and braise meats for tender perfection, or try your hand at spicy tacos and sliders. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a flavorful stir-fry, these adobo sauce recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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