Google Doodle is honoring adobo, the well-loved Filipino dish renowned for its tender, juicy, and soulful flavors, as it makes its debut on the platform. The celebration coincides with the 16th anniversary of adobo's recognition in the quarterly word list update of the Oxford English Dictionary.
Adobo chicken, a renowned Filipino dish, is believed to be the unofficial national dish of the country. According to the source, there are diverse recipes and variations on how to prepare adobo across different cultures, and Filipino adobo recipes differ regionally within the Philippines.
Adobo in the Philippines comes in numerous variations, yet all are characterized by marinated meat or vegetables braised into a stew. The essential ingredients include vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and black pepper. The dish's flavor can be further modified in different regions, with some variations having a sweet, sour, or salty taste.
According to the outlet, the Visayas region prepares "adobong puti" using only vinegar (without soy sauce) and is regarded by many as the original Filipino adobo style. On the other hand, in Southern Luzon, the preferred adobo style is creamier and includes coconut milk.
According to renowned restaurateur and food writer Claude Tayag, "Adobo" is not only a source of Filipino pride and identity, but it also evokes a sense of nostalgia among Filipinos worldwide. Just the mention of this mouth-watering dish can make them crave the taste of home, whether it's enjoyed with rice, pandesal, or simply by itself.
According to Google Doodle artist, Anthony Irwin, he reminisced about his childhood memories while working on the art for the Adobo Doodle. To get inspiration, he ordered some southern-style chicken Adobo from a local restaurant, and was immediately hit by the nostalgic aroma that filled his apartment. Irwin aimed to capture the simple joy of savoring comforting food that makes one feel at home.
Adobo, an iconic dish that has evolved over centuries, is now relished globally as a symbol of Filipino pride. Its taste varies from region to region, family to family, and is loved by all palates. The dish's rich history, unmatched flavor, and tempting aroma make it a favorite of all, as depicted in the artwork of today's children. Whether served in any manner, Adobo always leaves the stomach content and the taste buds yearning for more.