As the saying goes, “Spice is Life,” and it is a notion we passionately believe in. Many dishes would be dull and bland if they were not spiced. Thank you, but no thanks. That’s where this adobo seasoning recipe comes in.

Some spices or seasonings are quite expensive. Another concern is that it’s hard to know how long ground spices have been on the shelves before when you purchase them. Expiration dates are merely a guideline; there is hardly any information regarding when the spices were packaged.

Fortunately, you don’t have to buy pre-made spice blends anymore; you can make them at home and should make your own. Not only is it less expensive, but it’s also safer because you know what exactly went into it.

I realized early on that making things myself at home is safe and healthy. My pantry is full of various flavor blends and the components necessary to create them. I enjoy having a variety of spices on hand for various dishes and flavors. Adobo Seasoning is one that is quickly becoming a favorite. 

Adobo is a popular Hispanic all-purpose seasoning combination. It has a great flavor and may be customized to liking. Season everything with this seasoning… and I mean “EVERYTHANG”… just not for dessert. That isn’t going to go well, in my opinion.

Today, I was going to make another batch of my Adobo spice mix. So I decided to share its recipe with you. It was created by our assistant Chef Jean Escobar here in Healthier Step’s Test Kitchen, he was born in Puerto Rico.

As I always request, you read the complete article for useful tips and tricks. However, you can find the detailed recipe with exact ingredients and step-by-step instructions below.

What Is Adobo Seasoning?

Adobo seasoning is a mixture of different spices used to flavor up meat, soup, vegetables, and other dishes in Latin American, the Caribbean, and Filipino cuisines. The term adobo is derived from the Spanish verb “adobar,” which means “to marinade,” and this condiment comes in various forms, including liquid sauces that frequently contain vinegar.

Before refrigeration, Adobo was used to preserve perishable food. The first adobo seasoning blends included a lot of paprika in them. Antioxidants in paprika aid to prevent rotting. Nowadays, it is primarily used for seasoning rather than preservation.

It can be used as a dry rub, sauce base, or marinade. Whatever way you use it, I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s a fantastic flavor enhancer. This is a recipe you’ll want to have on hand if you like garlicky flavors and basic but effective ingredients.

Adobo Types

There are two varieties of adobos: dry and wet. Dry adobos are similar to dry rubs used in the US, while wet adobos are marinades made with citrus fruits like lime or sour oranges.

How Does It Taste?

The flavor of this condiment varies by area, but it is typically garlic and vinegar-based. Some types will be sweeter, while others will be saltier. Some are more herbal, while others are spicier.

Adobo seasoning recipe:

To prepare Homemade Adobo Seasoning, you’ll require the following ingredients:

  • Salt
  • Smoked paprika
  • Paprika
  • Onion powder
  • garlic powder
  • Coriander
  • Oregano
  • Cumin

How to make homemade adobo seasoning?

  1. Place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix.
  2. Store in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
adobo puerto rican seasoning in a white plate

Storing Tips

Put the adobo seasoning in a spice jar and use it as needed. Keep in a cool, dry place.

The problem with spices, especially those containing herbs like oregano, is that their flavor fades over time. So you should consider throwing them after six months. But it isn’t the only reason to develop your own spice blends. Instead of committing to large quantities of Adobo, you can make a little quantity at a time and not feel rushed to finish them.

Ensure that your Adobo jar is firmly sealed and kept away from moisture and heat. Remember that our Adobo does not include tricalcium phosphate; therefore, it will not remain free-flowing. Keeping the Adobo away from steam and heat will help prevent caking. Give the jar a good shake to break up any clumps that have formed during storage.

Adobo Seasoning: How to Use It?

This spice blend gives dishes a lot of depth without being overwhelming, and it can be used on almost anything. Here are some ideas for using adobo seasoning:

  • Grilled or roasted vegetables
  • Soups of all kinds
  • Guacamole
  • Marinades
  • As an all-purpose seasoning
  • To make homemade dips more flavorful

Variations in Adobo Seasoning

Because this is a generic Latin American spice combination, there will be regional and personal differences. It’s extremely versatile, as you can see. You can use your own spice ingredients to add flavor. Chili powder, cayenne, red pepper, bitter orange, turmeric, dried citrus, saffron, and other spices may also be used.

If you want, you can skip the salt in this recipe and simply sprinkle it on top as needed using this spice in your cooking.

Boom! Done! Isn’t homemade adobo seasoning pretty simple to make?

Give this homemade Adobo Seasoning Recipe a try. I hope you like and enjoy its aroma and taste. And, don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments!

More homemade spice blends:

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Categories

Nutrition

(Per serving)
  • Energy: 3 kcal / 13 kJ
  • Fat: 0.1 g
  • Protein: 0.1 g
  • Carbs: 0.6 g

Cook Time

  • Preparation: 5 min
  • Ready in: 5 min
  • For: 90 Servings

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix.
  2. Store in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Recipe author's Gravatar image

Michelle Blackwood, RN

Hi, I’m Michelle, I’m the voice, content creator and photographer behind Healthier Steps. I share vegan and gluten-free recipes because of past health issues. My goal is to help you make healthier choices and show you how healthy eating is easy and delicious.