As the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself reminiscing about those cozy evenings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where dishes like Adobong Pusit filled the air with an uplifting aroma—garlic, soy sauce, and tangy vinegar dancing together in perfect harmony. It was a meal that instantly transported me back to family gatherings, laughter echoing around the table.
I didn’t set out to recreate this dish, but as I sorted through my pantry, I realized I had all the ingredients waiting to become a culinary masterpiece. The beauty of Adobong Pusit lies in its simplicity—cooked squid simmered in a fragrant sauce that transforms a weeknight dinner into an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests with your cooking prowess or just seeking a comforting meal after a long day, this dish is the answer. Ready in just 30 minutes, it brings people together and adds a delightful twist to your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive into this recipe, because trust me, a plate of Adobong Pusit is exactly what your week needs!
Why is Adobong Pusit a must-try?
Comforting flavors: The blend of garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar creates a savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.
Quick preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile delight: Adobong Pusit pairs beautifully with rice or veggies, making it adaptable for any meal.
Crowd pleaser: Its rich flavors make it a hit for gatherings or family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Homemade goodness: This dish is a delightful break from fast food, bringing the warmth of home-cooked meals to your table. For more easy-to-follow recipes, check out my other posts!
Adobong Pusit Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up this flavorful seafood dish!
For the Marinade
- Squid – large, cleaned, and sliced for a tender bite.
- Soy sauce – adds a savory depth to your marinade.
- White vinegar – balances the flavors with a tangy kick.
- Salt – coarse, to enhance the natural taste of the squid.
For the Sauté
- Onion – chopped, to create a sweet base when sautéed.
- Tomato – chopped, for a burst of freshness and acidity.
- Garlic – crushed, infusing the dish with a warm, aromatic essence.
For Cooking
- Sugar – while a mere ½ teaspoon, it rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Cooking oil – 3 tablespoons for the perfect sautéing method.
With these simply splendid ingredients, you’re all set to create a delicious plate of Adobong Pusit that’s sure to be a family favorite!
How to Make Adobong Pusit
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Combine the squid, salt, soy sauce, and vinegar in a mixing bowl. Make sure to mix well so that all the flavors penetrate the squid. Let it marinate for 12 minutes to enhance the taste.
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Heat the cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the crushed garlic until it turns a light golden brown, then add the chopped onion and tomato. Continue to sauté until the onion is translucent and the tomato has softened completely.
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Pour the marinade liquid into the pot, then add a dash of ground black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 3 minutes on low to medium heat. Cover the pot to retain all those lovely aromas.
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Add the marinated squid into the pot and let the sauce come to a boil again. Cover the pot and continue cooking for another 3 minutes until the squid is tender.
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Stir in the sugar to balance the flavors. Carefully remove the squid from the pot and arrange it on a serving dish. Continue cooking the sauce for a few more minutes until it reduces to half, thickening nicely.
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Pour the delicious sauce over the squid on the serving dish. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful experience with loved ones!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Adobong Pusit
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Quality Squid: Use fresh, tender squid for the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen options if possible for optimal taste.
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Marination Time: Don’t skip the marination step; letting the squid soak in soy sauce and vinegar enhances its tenderness and flavor.
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Perfect Sautéing: Be careful not to overcook the garlic. It should be light brown to release its aroma without becoming bitter, ensuring your Adobong Pusit shines.
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Adjust Sauces: Feel free to tweak soy sauce or vinegar levels to suit your taste, but aim for a balanced flavor that remains true to traditional Adobong Pusit.
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Cooking Time: Monitor the squid closely while cooking. Overcooking can make it rubbery; a quick sauté keeps it tender and delicious.
How to Store and Freeze Adobong Pusit
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors vibrant while maintaining the squid’s tender texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Adobong Pusit in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out. Enjoy your Adobong Pusit warm, as if it was just made!
Make Ahead Options
These Adobong Pusit are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the squid in the soy sauce, vinegar, and salt mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. The sautéed garlic, onion, and tomato can also be prepared ahead of time—simply refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, just heat the vegetable mixture, add the squid, and cook until tender, ensuring you don’t overcook it for the best results. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Adobong Pusit with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights that much easier!
Adobong Pusit Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped chili peppers during the sautéing step for an exciting heat that tantalizes your taste buds.
For those who love a little spice, this variation brightens the dish and elevates the flavor experience. -
Coconut Cream: Stir in 1/4 cup of coconut cream to the sauce for a rich, creamy twist that adds depth.
Incorporating coconut can turn Adobong Pusit into a luscious treat, enhancing the overall mouthfeel and flavor profile. -
Vegetable Boost: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for added color and nutrients.
This not only adds a freshness to the dish but also makes it more vibrant and wholesome for the whole family. -
Lemon Zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon to the marinade for a zesty brightness that complements the flavors beautifully.
Just a touch of citrus can lift the overall taste, making your Adobong Pusit feel even more refreshing. -
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a fragrant, aromatic layer.
These fresh herbs can elevate the dish and provide a delightful contrast to the savory notes. -
Soy-Free Option: Substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce for a gluten-free, soy-free version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
This swap allows those with dietary preferences to enjoy a tantalizing Adobong Pusit without missing out. -
Pineapple Twist: Add pineapple chunks to the sauté for a sweet and tangy contrast that tantalizes the palate.
The sweetness of pineapple intertwines nicely with the savory elements, creating a playful balance that’s hard to resist. -
Onion Variety: Use shallots instead of yellow onion for a milder, slightly sweeter base flavor.
Shallots offer a subtle complexity that can make your Adobong Pusit even more delightful to savor.
What to Serve with Adobong Pusit?
Looking to create a delightful and well-rounded meal experience? Here are some perfect pairings to enhance your Adobong Pusit journey!
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, providing a perfect base to enjoy with your squid.
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Garlic Butter Vegetables: Sautéed greens or mixed vegetables add a delightful crunch and freshness that balances the rich flavors of the dish.
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Crispy Fried Tofu: The crispy edges of golden-brown tofu bring a satisfying texture, and the subtle flavor complements the seafood delight beautifully.
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Fresh Lumpiang Shanghai: These savory spring rolls offer a crispy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the tender squid and tangy sauce.
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Sinigang Soup: The sour notes of this traditional soup can bring brightness to your meal, complementing the umami flavors of the Adobong Pusit.
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Chilled Coconut Juice: The refreshing taste of coconut juice can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dining experience, adding a tropical touch.
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Kalamansi Juice: A splash of this citrus drink brings a zesty finish that helps elevate the whole meal, perfectly balancing the savory and tangy notes.
Adobong Pusit Recipe FAQs
What type of squid should I use?
I recommend using fresh, large squid for the best flavor and texture. Look for squid that has a clean smell and a firm texture. Avoid those with dark spots or a slimy surface, as they may not be as fresh.
How long can I store leftover Adobong Pusit?
You can store your Adobong Pusit in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s well-sealed to retain its delicious flavors and tender texture. Reheat gently to enjoy it just like freshly made!
Can I freeze Adobong Pusit?
Absolutely! To freeze Adobong Pusit, place it in a freezer-safe container. It will remain good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stove to prevent the squid from becoming rubbery.
What should I do if the squid turns rubbery while cooking?
If you find that your squid has become rubbery, it might have been overcooked. Ensure you only cook it briefly—around 3 minutes is plenty! If you’re looking to salvage it, you can try slicing it thinly and adding it to a sauce or stir-fry to soften it further.
Is Adobong Pusit suitable for those with seafood allergies?
Unfortunately, this dish contains squid and is not suitable for anyone with a seafood allergy. Always check for allergies with your guests beforehand, and consider opting for a different protein or vegetarian substitute if needed.
Can I adjust the ingredients to make it milder?
Certainly! If you prefer a milder flavor, try reducing the soy sauce or vinegar to your taste. Alternatively, you can add more tomato to balance the flavors without overwhelming them. Don’t hesitate to experiment until it’s perfect for your palate!
Savory Adobong Pusit: A Home-Cooked Seafood Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the squid, salt, soy sauce, and vinegar in a mixing bowl. Mix well and let marinate for 12 minutes.
- Heat the cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the crushed garlic until light golden brown, then add the chopped onion and tomato. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Pour the marinade liquid into the pot and add ground black pepper. Bring to a boil and cook for about 3 minutes on low to medium heat.
- Add the marinated squid into the pot and let the sauce come to a boil again. Cover and cook for another 3 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the sugar to balance the flavors. Remove the squid and arrange on a serving dish. Cook the sauce until reduced to half.
- Pour the sauce over the squid. Serve warm and enjoy!