Unlocking the Flavors of Chicken Feet Adobo
Chicken feet adobo is a tantalizing Filipino dish that showcases the rich and savory flavors of Filipino cuisine. While chicken feet dishes can be found in various Asian cuisines, adobo takes it a step further with its unique blend of flavors and techniques. In this article, we will explore the art of making chicken feet adobo, a dish that has earned a special place in the hearts and palates of Filipinos and food enthusiasts worldwide.
Preparing Chicken Feet for Cooking
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to note that chicken feet can be a bit challenging to work with if you don’t buy them prepped. To save time and effort, consider purchasing chicken feet from your local wet market that have already been cleaned, with the skin and nails removed. This step significantly simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to focus on creating the perfect adobo sauce.
Infusing Flavor with Garlic:
Start by heating oil in a medium-sized wok. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sauté it until it becomes fragrant and slightly browned. This initial step sets the foundation for the dish’s flavorful base.
Introducing the Chicken Feet:
Add all the chicken feet to the wok, and stir them for a few seconds. This quick stir helps sear the chicken feet, locking in their juices and enhancing their texture.
Building Complexity with Onions and Bay Leaves:
Incorporate finely chopped onions and bay leaves into the wok. These ingredients add depth to the flavor profile, giving the dish a tantalizing aroma and taste.
Balancing Sweetness with Brown Sugar:
Sprinkle brown sugar into the mix, striking a balance between the savory and sweet elements of the dish. The brown sugar caramelizes, infusing a subtle sweetness into the sauce.
Elevating with Soy Sauce and Vinegar:
Pour soy sauce and vinegar into the wok, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The soy sauce adds umami, while the vinegar imparts a tangy kick that is characteristic of adobo dishes.
Adding Heat with Chili Peppers:
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, toss in some chili peppers. Adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance to achieve the desired level of spiciness.
Simmering to Perfection:
Cover the wok and allow the chicken feet to simmer for approximately 5 minutes. During this phase, it’s essential not to mix the chicken feet to let them absorb the flavors gradually.
Incorporating Water and Black Pepper:
Following the initial simmer, add water and a dash of black pepper to the mix. Gently stir the chicken feet for a few seconds, ensuring that the flavors are distributed evenly.
Slow and Tender Cooking:
Reduce the heat to a low setting and continue to simmer the dish for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. The slow cooking process allows the chicken feet to become tender and the sauce to thicken. If the chicken feet are still tough after this time, you can add more water and continue simmering until they reach the desired tenderness.
Serving the Delicacy:
Once the sauce has thickened, and the chicken feet are tender, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Serve this delectable chicken feet adobo hot, accompanied by steamed rice for a truly authentic Filipino dining experience.
A Taste of Filipino Tradition
Chicken feet adobo is not just a dish; it’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. With its flavorful blend of ingredients and meticulous cooking process, it’s no wonder this dish has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Whether you’re a Filipino longing for a taste of home or an adventurous food enthusiast seeking new flavors, chicken feet adobo is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and embark on a culinary journey to discover the delightful world of Filipino cuisine.
How to Cook Chicken Feet Adobo
Ingredients
- 1 kilo chicken feet cleaned, skin and nails removed
- 1 Tbsp. cooking oil
- 2 pcs red onion chopped
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 3 pcs bay leaves
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar
- 1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
- 2 pcs green chili peppers siling haba
- 4 cups water
Instructions
How to cook Chicken Feet Adobo:
- In a medium size or wok, heat oil and saute garlic until fragrant and slightly brown.
- Then put all the chicken feet on the wok and stir for a few seconds then add the onions, bay leaves, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, chili peppers.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes and cover. Do not mix the chicken feet while cooking.
- Next, add the water and black pepper. Mix the chicken feet for a few seconds then cover.
- Cook on low fire and simmer for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the sauce is slightly thick and the chicken feet is already tender.
- If the chicken feet is still tough, add more water until it is already tender.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
Notes
Cooking Tips for Chicken Feet Adobo:
1. Marination Magic: Allow the chicken feet to marinate in the soy sauce, vinegar, and other seasonings for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the depth of flavor and tenderness. 2. Low and Slow Simmer: Achieve the best results by simmering the chicken feet on low heat for an extended period, ensuring that they become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the adobo sauce. 3. Taste and Adjust: Adobo is all about balance, so taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or spiciness to your preference by adding more sugar, soy sauce, or chili peppers as needed.
