Chicken Liver Adobo: A Bold & Flavorful Filipino Classic!

Adobong Atay ng Manok (Chicken Liver Adobo)

Chicken Liver Adobo: A Rich & Savory Filipino Classic!

Adobong Atay ng Manok is a flavorful and authentic dish with a rich and tangy twist to the traditional adobo. This Filipino favorite is a winner in many households, combining chicken livers with a savory, soy sauce-based sauce enhanced with vinegar, garlic, and other essential seasonings. The balance of flavors creates a deliciousness that pairs perfectly with white rice, making every bite tender and deeply satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a simple yet nutritious meal or as part of a variety of side dishes, this classic recipe offers a cooking experience that is as rich as its taste.

Beyond its taste, Adobong Atay ng Manok is known for its affordable ingredients and budget-friendly nature, making it an easy choice for any Filipino kitchen. The texture of seared, boiled chicken livers adds depth, while the flavourful combination of onion, turmeric, and other seasonings ensures every bite is infused with bold flavors. With many variations, from adding vegetable adobo to serving it alongside adobo fried rice, this staple dish remains a favorite among those who appreciate tradition and creativity in the kitchen.

Adobong Atay ng Manok: A Filipino Classic

What is Adobong Atay ng Manok?

Adobong Atay ng Manok is a well-loved dish in Filipino cuisine. It is made by marinating chicken livers in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, spices, and herbs. This traditional cooking method brings a rich, savory taste with a tangy kick, creating a balanced, unique, and deeply satisfying dish.

Rich and Balanced Flavors:

Adobo sauce enhances the meat’s natural depth while adding vegetables or other ingredients, giving it an even more flavorful touch. Acidic ingredients like lemon juice and the deep umami of the sauce balance the intense flavors.

Distinct Taste and Texture:

The taste of chicken liver in this dish is distinct, with a creamy texture when cooked properly. It has a mild sweetness but also carries an earthy, metallic taste due to its high iron content. The flavors meld together as the dish is simmered, creating a comforting yet exciting taste experience.

How It’s Served and Its Cultural Importance:

Often served with steamed rice, this main dish is a beloved staple in many Filipino homes, enjoyed as either a standalone meal or a side dish. This recipe showcases the depth of Filipino cuisine, highlighting how simple cooking techniques can elevate ingredients into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Affordable and Nutrient-Packed:

If you’re looking for budget-friendly meals packed with essential nutrients, Adobong Atay ng Manok is an absolute winner! This Filipino classic combines chicken liver with a savory and tangy soy-vinegar sauce, creating a rich flavor.

Despite common misconceptions, organ meats like chicken liver are a superfood, offering an abundance of:

• Protein – Essential for muscle growth and repair
• Iron – Helps prevent anemia and supports oxygen circulation
• Vitamins A & B12 – Vital for immune health, cognitive function, and red blood cell production
• Folate – Supports brain function and vision

Easy and Quick to Prepare:

This dish is easy to make and an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when you want something flavorful and nutritious. Made in just a few simple steps, it’s an excellent way to enjoy nutrient-dense meals without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Healthy and Satisfying:

Although chicken liver is higher in fat compared to other meats, it remains an excellent option for maintaining a balanced diet. It allows you to keep calories in check while enjoying bold flavors.

A Perfect Combination of Tradition and Health:

Next time you’re looking for a quick and healthy dish for your family, Adobong Atay ng Manok will satisfy your appetite and nutritional needs. It blends traditional Filipino flavors with the modern convenience of affordability and easy preparation, making it a meal that supports growth, energy levels, and overall well-being.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Liver Adobo

Chicken Liver:

The base of this dish is chicken liver, which must be cleaned, trimmed, and patted dry to remove any excess moisture and impurities.

Flavor Base:

To create the perfect flavor for your adobo, you’ll need soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sweet soy sauce to make a savory and tangy adobo sauce. Adding white vinegar (preferably cane vinegar) gives it a spicy kick that balances out the richness of the liver.

Aromatic Ingredients:

Fresh garlic, onion, and ginger help add depth, aroma, and a mild kick. Together, they create a beautiful balance in the dish.

Spices:

Add bay leaf and black peppercorns for seasoning and depth. These spices give the dish a subtle earthy flavor, heat, and complexity.

Sweetness and Seasoning:

A touch of sugar (or brown sugar) provides sweetness, balancing the dish’s savory and tangy components. Salt and pepper should be added to taste for the perfect seasoning.

Garnishes:

Top your dish with green onions or cilantro for a fresh and vibrant garnish. This enhances the flavor and appearance of the dish.

Appearance of Chicken Liver:

When buying chicken liver, make sure it has a deep red, almost mahogany color and is moist but not slimy.

Cooking Liquids:

Water is the essential cooking liquid, helping to keep the chicken liver moist and ensure it simmers to perfection without being too dry.

Additional Ingredients:

Add fried garlic slivers for texture and a subtle extra crunch for extra flavor. If you like extra spice, add long green chilis for a zing to your dish.

Meat and Condiments:

The dish traditionally uses poultry meat, such as chicken liver, but you can add boiled eggs and chicken thigh for a heartier meal. A condiment sauce made with vinegar, soy sauce, and oyster sauce is essential for creating the signature taste of adobong atay.

Herbs and Extra Seasoning:

In addition to garlic, onion, and ginger, you’ll need red onion, bay leaves, and peppercorns to enhance the overall flavor. The herbs contribute to the dish’s bold taste.

Steps to Prepare Chicken Liver Adobo

Marinating the Chicken Liver:

Start by marinating the chicken liver in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of brown sugar for at least 30 minutes. This allows the liver to soak up all the flavors and helps neutralize any metallic taste. I often rinse the liver in cold water to remove any impurities before marinating, and sometimes even soak it in milk to make it more tender. Once marinated, set the liver aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Preparing the Aromatic Base:

Next, heat cooking oil in a big pan over medium heat. Add the sautéed garlic, sliced onion, and your choice of spices—like bay leaves and black peppercorns—and cook them until they become golden and fragrant. This aromatic base is what gives chicken liver adobo its rich flavor.

Searing the Chicken Liver:

When the onions become translucent, add the chicken liver and sear it on all sides until it becomes lightly browned with crisp edges. Be sure not to overcook the liver, which can turn grainy and rubbery.

Making the Adobo Sauce:

Once the liver is browned, pour in the reserved marinade and some water to create the adobo sauce. Let it boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the liver to become fully cooked and tender.

Final Adjustments:

If you like, you can add boiled eggs or chicken thighs to make the dish even heartier. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. When the sauce thickens and reaches your desired consistency, serve the adobong atay with steamed rice. Enjoy!

Delicious Variations of Chicken Liver Adobo

Sweet and Tangy Variation:

One popular variation is the addition of pineapple chunks, which lends a sweet and tangy flavor to the savory sauce, creating a delightful contrast.

Adding Texture with Potatoes:

For more texture, you can introduce diced potatoes or crispy potatoes. These absorb the rich adobo sauce while adding a heartier element.

Spicy Kick for Heat Lovers:

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, bird’s eye chili or a sprinkle of chili flakes adds a fiery kick to the recipe.

Creamy Twist with Coconut Milk:

Coconut milk is another twist, adding a creamy depth that enriches the savory flavors of the dish.

Healthier Alternatives:

For a healthier take, try adobong kangkong with tofu and water spinach or sitaw (string beans), which bring freshness and a crunchy texture to the adobo.

Enhancing Flavor with Boiled Eggs:

Boiled eggs are a great addition, allowing them to soak up the delicious, seasoned adobo sauce, further enhancing the overall flavor.

Mixing Different Chicken Parts:

Chicken liver, combined with chicken breast or gizzards, adds layers of texture, with each ingredient contributing to a dish full of depth and richness.

Essential Seasonings:

Seasoning sauces like soy sauce and vinegar are essential, bringing balance and seasoning to every variation of this iconic Filipino dish.

Storing and Serving Chicken Liver Adobo

Proper Storage Tips:

After making chicken liver adobo, it’s best to let it cool down to room temperature before storing it. Transfer it to an airtight or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid and place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Longer Storage:

If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally for an even temperature.

How to Enjoy Leftovers:

Leftovers pair well with:

• Steamed rice
• Garlic rice
• Fried rice

It can also be served as an appetizer, finger food, or pulutan, making it an excellent match for cold drinks.

Serving Suggestions:

For an extra appetizing presentation, garnish with chopped green onions and serve in a dish that enhances its visual appeal.

Chicken Liver Adobo: A Classic and Flavorful Filipino Dish

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║                  🍽️ CHICKEN LIVER ADOBO                      ║

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║ 🏷️ Dish Name         │ Chicken Liver Adobo (Adobong Atay ng Manok)  ║

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║ 🍛 Type              │ Traditional, Budget-Friendly Filipino Dish  ║

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║ 🌶️ Flavor Profile    │ Savory, Tangy, Rich, Robust                 ║

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║ 🥘 Key Ingredients   │ : Soy sauce, Vinegar, Oyster sauce,           ║

║                      │ Bay leaves, Seasonings                      ║

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║ ⏳ Prep Time         │ 10 minutes                                  ║

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║ 🔥 Cook Time         │ : 20 minutes                                  ║

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║ 🍽️ Serving Size     │ 4 people                                    ║

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║ 🥚 Enhancements      │ Boiled egg for texture and flavor           ║

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║ 🔢 Calories         │ Approximately 303 kcal                      ║

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║ 🍚 Best Served      │ Steamed rice.                                ║

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║ ❤️ Popularity       │ Loved by many Filipino households,          ║

║                      │ ideal for family meals                      ║

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Ingredient, Quantity and Units

Steps and Instructions

Notes & Tips

• Balancing Flavors: Adjust the sugar and vinegar to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, add extra vinegar.
• Adding Chicken Thighs: Add skinless chicken thighs and the liver for a balanced protein mix for a heartier dish.
• Heat Level: Adjust the number of green chilis used to control the spice. For less heat, omit the chili or remove the seeds.
• Alternative Garnishes: Fresh parsley or scallions can be used for unavailable cilantro.
• Storage: The dish can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. The flavors often improve after sitting for a day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Adobong Atay ng Manok.

Q1: What is Adobong Atay ng Manok?

Ans: Adobong Atay ng Manok is a classic Filipino dish. It features chicken liver simmered in a savory, tangy sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and seasonings. It is rich in flavor and best enjoyed with steamed rice.

Q2: How do you remove the metallic taste from chicken liver?

Ans: To reduce the metallic taste, you can:

• Rinse the liver in cold water before cooking.
• Soak it in milk for 30 minutes before marinating to make it milder and more tender.

Q3: What are the health benefits of chicken liver?

Ans: Chicken liver is highly nutritious and packed with:

• Protein – Supports muscle growth and repair.
• Iron – Helps prevent anemia and supports oxygen circulation.
• Vitamins A & B12 – Important for immune health and cognitive function.
• Folate – Supports brain function and vision.

Q4: How can I prevent chicken liver from becoming dry and grainy?

Ans: Avoid overcooking! Sear the liver for about 5-7 minutes until browned, then simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes until tender. Overcooking will make it dry and tough.

Q5: What are some variations of Chicken Liver Adobo?

Ans:

• Spicy – Add bird’s eye chili or chili flakes for heat.
• Sweet & Tangy – Add pineapple chunks for a hint of sweetness.
• Creamy – Mix in coconut milk for a richer texture.
• With Potatoes – Add diced or fried potatoes for a heartier meal.

Q6: How long can I store and reheat Chicken Liver Adobo?

Ans:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Use a microwave or stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Q7: What is the best way to serve Adobong Atay ng Manok?

Ans: It is best served with steamed garlic or adobo fried rice. It can also be enjoyed as pulutan (beer food) for a flavorful snack with a cold drink.