Gordon Ramsay and Anthony Bourdain, two of the most respected figures in the culinary world, have traveled the globe tasting the best dishes different cultures have to offer. While their palates have been exposed to countless flavors, one particular Filipino dish managed to win the approval of both celebrity chefs—adobo.
A Filipino Classic That Won Over Culinary Giants
Filipino cuisine is known for its bold flavors and rich history, but if there’s one dish that stands out as a national favorite, it’s adobo. Traditionally made with chicken or pork, slow-cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns, adobo’s savory and tangy taste has made it a beloved comfort food in the Philippines. Both Ramsay and Bourdain praised this simple yet flavorful dish. Gordon Ramsay, known for his sharp critique and high culinary standards, was particularly impressed by the depth of flavors in Filipino adobo. Meanwhile, Anthony Bourdain, who had an affinity for exploring authentic, home-cooked meals, once called Filipino cuisine “underrated” and expressed his admiration for adobo’s balance of acidity and umami.
Why Adobo Stands Out
One of the reasons adobo is so special is its adaptability. Every Filipino household has its own version of the dish, with some adding coconut milk (adobo sa gata) or tweaking the seasoning to suit regional tastes. Its ability to evolve while maintaining its core flavors makes it a unique dish that reflects the diversity of Filipino cooking. Moreover, adobo’s long shelf life—thanks to its vinegar-based marinade—makes it a practical dish for Filipino families, especially in areas where refrigeration is scarce. This functional yet delicious aspect of adobo has helped it remain a staple in Filipino cuisine for generations.
A Dish Worth Trying
For both Ramsay and Bourdain to sing the praises of adobo speaks volumes about its global appeal. While Filipino food is gaining recognition worldwide, adobo remains its strongest ambassador—a dish that tells a story of history, culture, and culinary ingenuity.
