Pork Adobo

Instructions

1. Marinate the pork
   In a large bowl, combine pork, soy sauce, vinegar, crushed garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Mix well to coat the meat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is better for more flavor penetration.
2. Brown the meat
   Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade (reserve the marinade) and brown the meat in batches, about 3-4 minutes per batch. This adds depth of flavor to the final dish.
3. Simmer the adobo
   Return all browned pork to the pot. Pour in the reserved marinade along with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the pork is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Reduce the sauce
   Once the pork is tender, remove the lid and increase heat to medium. If using brown sugar, add it now. Allow the sauce to reduce for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and develops a glossy appearance.
5. Season and serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over steamed white rice, spooning the sauce generously over the meat.