Pork Adobo

Name: Pork Adobo
Ingredients: 12 pounds country-style pork ribs (not the loin), each rib cut in half crosswise above the bones; 6 cups rice vinegar; 3 cups soy sauce; 6 heads of garlic, separated into unpeeled cloves; Freshly ground pepper; 2 large red bell peppers; Vegetable oil, for frying; 1/2 cup crushed unsalted peanuts (optional); Steamed rice, for serving

9 ingredients

8 steps

Ingredients

12 pounds country-style pork ribs (not the loin), each rib cut in half crosswise above the bones
6 cups rice vinegar
3 cups soy sauce
6 heads of garlic, separated into unpeeled cloves
Freshly ground pepper
2 large red bell peppers
Vegetable oil, for frying
1/2 cup crushed unsalted peanuts (optional)
Steamed rice, for serving

Directions

1

In each of 2 large enameled cast-iron casseroles, combine half of the ribs, vinegar, soy sauce and garlic. Season with pepper and bring to a simmer. Cook over low heat, skimming occasionally, until the ribs are cooked through, about 30 minutes.
2

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the ribs to a platter, leaving the garlic behind. Continue to simmer the cooking liquid in the 2 casseroles until the garlic is tender, about 30 minutes; let cool. Remove the garlic cloves and peel them, then add to the ribs.
3

Remove the fat from the cooking liquid. Pour the liquid into a medium saucepan and boil until reduced to 2 cups, about 15 minutes.
4

Roast the red peppers directly over a gas flame or under a broiler, turning, until charred all over. Transfer to a large bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let stand for 10 minutes to loosen the skins. Peel the peppers, discarding the cores, ribs and seeds; cut the flesh into long thin strips.
5

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add as many of the ribs as will fit without crowding and fry over moderate heat until deeply browned, about 4 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Repeat with the remaining ribs, adding more oil as needed.
6

Add the garlic cloves to the skillet and fry, stirring, until browned and crisp, about 5 minutes. Arrange the ribs and garlic on a warmed platter. Scatter the peanuts and red pepper strips on top and serve. Pass the reduced cooking liquid and the rice separately.
7

Make Ahead: The adobo can be prepared through Step 2 up to 2 days ahead; refrigerate the liquid and ribs separately.
8

Wine Recommendation: This spicy menu requires a not-quite-dry white to provide a refreshing flavor background. Among various choices, look for the 1996 Bonny Doon Pacific Rim Riesling or the 1996 Jekel Johannisberg Riesling, both from California.