Want to turn your ordinary pork adobo into a delicious and tasty dish with a bit of sweetness? I’m sure you are going to love this version of adobo by adding it with Sprite or 7-Up soft drinks. You can use any lime soda drink if Sprite or 7-Up is not your preferred soft drinks or if you think it is too sweet to your taste. In this recipe, I used pork belly strips which is usually the kind of cut you can purchase from the meat vendors. And its up to you how thick the pork belly is by asking the meat vendor because sometimes the cut is too thin. I think aside from pork belly, using pork shoulder or pork butt is also a good choice.
A Sweet and Savory Twist to a Classic Filipino Dish
When it comes to Filipino cuisine, few dishes evoke the same level of nostalgia and comfort as adobo. With its savory, tangy, and garlicky flavors, adobo has become a beloved staple on dining tables across the Philippines and beyond. However, today, we invite you to elevate this classic dish to new heights with an unexpected and delightful twist.
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork:
A key factor in crafting the perfect adobo lies in selecting the right cut of pork. While there are various options available, pork belly strips steal the show with their ideal balance of tender meat and succulent fat. As the pork belly simmers in the adobo sauce, the fat renders, infusing the dish with an unmatched richness. For those seeking a leaner alternative, pork shoulder or pork butt can work equally well, producing a leaner, yet still flavorsome outcome.
Preparing the Ingredients:
As with any adobo recipe, the magic begins with a harmonious blend of ingredients. Aromatic garlic and onion form the foundation, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma as they sauté in cooking oil. The holy trinity of Filipino cooking – soy sauce, oyster sauce, and vinegar – comes together to create the heart of the adobo’s savory and tangy essence. Enhancing the depth of flavor, ground pepper and laurel leaves join the ensemble.
However, the secret ingredient that sets this adobo apart lies in its name. Instead of using just water as the braising liquid, Sprite or 7-Up adds a unique sweetness and effervescence to the dish, taking it to an entirely new realm of taste. The subtle citrusy notes of the soda perfectly complement the robust flavors of the adobo, making each bite an exquisite experience.
Cooking the Sprite Pork Adobo:
With all the ingredients in place, it’s time to bring this delightful dish to life. The cooking process is simple, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a symphony of tastes.
Start by sautéing the garlic and onion until they release their inviting aromas. Then, add the pork belly strips and sear them until they acquire a beautiful caramelized hue. This step not only seals in the meat’s juices but also imparts a depth of flavor to the adobo.
Browning the pork:
Once the pork is browned, it’s time to introduce the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and vinegar into the mix. Resist the temptation to stir immediately; let the ingredients mingle and work their magic together. Then, add the ground pepper and laurel leaves to add a hint of earthiness and spice.
Now, here comes the special moment – pour in the Sprite or 7-Up. Watch as the soda bubbles and fizzes, infusing the adobo with its sweet and tangy notes. Allow the pork to simmer in this delightful concoction until it becomes tender and succulent.
As the adobo simmers, the flavors deepen, and the sauce reduces, forming a luscious glaze that envelops the pork with its tantalizing goodness. The result is a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish that will leave your taste buds singing with delight.
Final Thoughts:
Sprite pork adobo is a culinary revelation that takes the beloved Filipino dish to new heights. With its sweet and savory fusion of flavors, it offers a delightful twist that is sure to win hearts and palates. Whether you’re an adventurous cook looking to try something new or simply craving a comforting taste of home, this recipe is a must-try.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Filipino cuisine. With this dish on your table, you’re in for an unforgettable dining experience that brings together the best of tradition and innovation.
How to Cook Sprite Pork Adobo
Ingredients
- 1/2 kilo pork belly strips cut into an inch wide
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/2 tsp. black peppercorns cracked
- 1 cup Sprite or 7-Up softdrinks
- 3 pcs laurel leaves
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pc onion minced
- 2 Tbsp. cooking oil
- 1/2 Tbsp. oyster sauce
Instructions
How to Cook Sprite Pork Adobo:
- Wash and clean pork belly strips and slice into 1 inch wide. Set aside.
- Heat cooking oil in a pan and saute garlic and onion until fragrant. Add in the pork belly and saute until slightly brown.
- Then pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce and vinegar. Do not stir. Add in pepper and laurel leaves. Pour the sprite and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until tender and the fat is rendered. Then stir and remove the rendered fat from the pan.
- Add 1 cup water and bring to a boil and simmer until the sauce it reduced into half. Turn off heat and transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips:
- Marinate for Flavor: To enhance the taste, marinate the pork in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful adobo.
- Adjust Sweetness: The sweetness of the adobo can be tailored to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter dish, use Sprite or 7-Up as the soda of choice. For a milder sweetness, opt for a different lime soda brand or reduce the amount of soda used.
- Render the Fat: After simmering the pork, remove any excess rendered fat from the pan before adding water to reduce the sauce. This step ensures a balanced and less greasy final dish, allowing the flavors to shine without overwhelming richness.