What’s in the Spanish Caribbean Sauce?- Adobo Of course!

The secret to mimicking that Latin Caribbean brightness in your cooking is Jirie’s Adobo Lime Rub!

With a hand-blended balance of lime, spice, and herbs, Jirie’s Adobo Lime Rub is guaranteed to replicate that tangy, earthy, and aromatic seasoning blend of Puerto Rica’s Adobo seasoning. Adobo is a fundamental seasoning blend in Latin Caribbean cuisine used in savory dishes and recognized in the general Caribbean region.

The term “Adobo” derives from the Spanish word “adobar” which translates to marinate. Historically, the Spanish and Portuguese used a similar blend of vinegar and spices to flavor, preserve and pickle meats and vegetables for long voyages across the seas. Today, former Spanish colonies like Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic have adopted their own style of the Adobo seasoning/marinade blend. 

Similar to Jirie’s Adobo Lime Rub, the ingredients used include salt, cumin, garlic, lime juice, oregano, and a variety of other spices. The seasoning blend can be made into a wet or dry rub with the dry rub being most frequently used by being sprinkled directly onto all proteins, seafood, vegetables, and in “that sauce” of course. Each of these can be marinated, stewed, grilled, stir-fried, roasted, steamed, and baked with Jirie’s Adobo Lime Rub. The citrus undertones of this seasoning blend pairs excellently with Pinot Grigio and Savangion Blanc. A great combination to complete your meal.

Not by coincidence, it was discovered that some of the ingredients in Adobo seasoning help with good digestion. The antibacterial compounds in oregano are thought to kill off bacteria that cause food poisoning. The herb and black pepper are rich in minerals like iron and calcium, and vitamin K. Additionally, the cumin in Abodo seasoning helps with blood sugar management. 

But we cannot talk about Adobo without taking a closer look at Puerto Rico and The Dominican Republic. Both countries are lovely vacation destinations that boast lengthy, pristine, white beaches, tropical rainforest getaways, and immaculately preserved Spanish Catholic sites and culture.  These territories are an assimilation of centuries of European, African, and most recently, American immigration.

Puerto Rico is known for its bioluminescent bays where at night the fluorescent micro-plankton in shallow waters displayed their astonishing beauty. Kayaking tours are typical to experience this phenomenon. Also, the beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site- Old San Jaun and La Fortaleza. These locations display historic European military architecture adapted to harbor sites. A visit to these sites is not complete without stopping by Barrachina Restaurant. Located in Old San Juan, just one block from La Fortaleza, Barrachina restaurant has been serving visitors for over 40 years and is the birthplace of the world-famous piña colada, where don Ramon Portas Mingot, initially concocted the drink in 1963. If you crave to experience authentic Latin Caribbean flavors like Adobo, Barrachina is the real deal.

The Dominican Republic with its relaxed Spanish-influenced culture offers luscious tropical rainforests and most of the population is settled on the scenic ocean coast. Pack plenty of swimsuits for the sea and water activities which include snorkeling, swimming, and boating activities like a trip to Saona Island. On a sunny day, the sea is mesmerizing with crystal clear waters in a kaleidoscope of blues and greens. The island is quiet and a surreal pause from the bustle of the world. Take a moment to snap a picture, dip your toes in the sand, and savor the peaceful and perfect sunny weather!

The culture and history of these countries are similar in vibrancy to Jirie’s Abobo Lime Rub. Need to make your taste buds explode with that Caribbean zest? Two words… “Habichuelas Guisadas” Puerto Rican stewed beans. A classic dish from the island that is quick, simple, and can be easily customized to your preference but whatever you do:

Don’t skip Jirie’s Adobo Lime Rub! – Bringing you that Spanish Caribbean zest.