Where to Buy Adobo Sauce: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding That Flavor Punch

Struggling to find adobo sauce in your local store? You’re not alone! It can feel like a treasure hunt sometimes, especially because “adobo sauce” can mean a few different things depending on what culinary tradition you’re exploring. But don’t you worry, I’m here to break down exactly where you can snag this versatile ingredient, whether you’re looking for that smoky kick for your Mexican dishes or the tangy, savory base for a classic Filipino stew.

This guide will walk you through finding both types of adobo sauce in major grocery stores, specialty markets, and online, alongside where to grab related items like adobo seasoning and even those specific chipotle sauces you might be craving. We’ll also clear up any confusion between the different “adobos” out there. By the end of this, you’ll be a pro at tracking down exactly what you need to bring those delicious, rich flavors into your kitchen. So, let’s get you cooking!

Mexican Adobo Sauce: Your Guide to Chipotle in Adobo

When most people in North America talk about “adobo sauce,” they’re often thinking of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This isn’t a standalone sauce you buy in a bottle, but rather a small can of smoky, dried jalapeño peppers chipotles swimming in a rich, tangy, spiced tomato-based marinade. It’s a flavor powerhouse, packing a punch of heat, smoke, and savory depth, and it’s essential for so many amazing Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes.

Want to grab some right now? Here’s where you’ll usually find it:

Major Grocery Stores

You’re in luck! Most large grocery store chains make it pretty easy to find. Head straight for the international aisle, and specifically look in the Mexican or Latin American food section. It’ll often be hanging out near other canned peppers, salsas, or even canned tomatoes.

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• Walmart: This is usually a safe bet. You’ll often find several brands like La Costena Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce or Goya Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce on their shelves. If you’re struggling, their website or app can tell you exactly which aisle it’s on in your specific store.
• Target: Similar to Walmart, Target typically carries popular brands. Look for Goya and La Costena in their international food section.
• Kroger and its affiliates like Fred Meyer, Ralphs, etc.: You’ll definitely find chipotles in adobo here. They often stock brands like La Costena, Goya, and Embasa, and sometimes even their own store-brand versions.
• Safeway/Albertsons: These chains also usually have them in their international food sections.
• Publix: Many Reddit users have confirmed finding chipotles in adobo at Publix.
• Aldi: Believe it or not, Aldi frequently stocks chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, often at a great price. Check their Hispanic food section, usually by the taco seasonings and enchilada sauces.

Quick Tip: If you’re on the hunt and can’t spot it, ask a staff member. Sometimes, these items get shuffled around, or a new layout might throw you off. But if they give you a strange look, it’s probably because they’re thinking of a different “adobo” more on that later!.

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Online Retailers

If you prefer shopping from your couch or your local stores are letting you down, online is always a fantastic option.

• Amazon: This is probably the easiest place to find a huge variety of Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce. You’ll see all the major brands like La Costena, Goya, Embasa, and San Marcos, often available in multi-packs or different sizes. It’s super convenient for stocking up.
• Specialty Ethnic Food Websites: Many online stores that focus on Mexican or Latin American groceries will carry a broad selection. A quick search for “Mexican grocery online” can lead you to some great options.
• Walmart.com, Target.com, Kroger.com: Most major grocery stores also offer online ordering for pickup or delivery, so you can often add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your digital cart just like any other item.

Filipino Adobo Sauce: Finding the Classic Flavor

Now, if you’re looking for Filipino adobo sauce, you’re on a slightly different mission. This sauce is typically a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet marinade or stew base, usually made from a blend of soy sauce, vinegar often cane vinegar, garlic, and black peppercorns. It’s the heart of the Philippines’ national dish, “Adobo,” and it’s absolutely delicious.

Finding pre-made Filipino adobo sauce in a bottle can be a bit trickier than the canned chipotles, but it’s definitely becoming more accessible!

Specialty Asian/Filipino Markets

Your absolute best bet for authentic Filipino adobo sauce is an Asian grocery store or, even better, a Filipino market. These stores specialize in ingredients from the Philippines and other Asian countries, so they’ll likely have a dedicated section for sauces and marinades. You’ll find brands that are staples in Filipino households.

Larger Grocery Stores with International Sections

Some larger grocery chains, especially those in areas with diverse populations, are starting to carry Filipino products. Where to Buy Advion Cockroach Gel Bait: Your Ultimate Guide to Eradicating Roaches

• Kroger: Brands like Fila Manila Filipino Adobo Sauce have popped up in Kroger stores, making it easier to find.
• Target: Target also lists Fila Manila Filipino Adobo Sauce on its website for in-store purchase.
• Walmart: While mostly stocking chipotle adobo, some Walmart locations might carry Filipino brands, particularly in larger cities.

It’s still hit-or-miss in many general supermarkets, so if you don’t see it, don’t be discouraged!

Again, the internet is your friend here, offering a wider selection than what you might find locally.

• Amazon: You can find brands like Fila Manila Adobo Sauce and Mama Sita’s Adobo Mix which is a powder or concentrate you reconstitute readily available. You might also find essential Filipino soy sauces like Silver Swan Soy Sauce or Datu Puti, which are key components if you decide to make the sauce from scratch.
• Specialty Asian/Filipino Online Grocers: Websites dedicated to Asian food will almost certainly have a variety of Filipino adobo sauces and mixes. Searching for “Filipino food online” will give you a good starting point.

Adobo Seasoning: The Dry Spice Blend

Let’s clear up another common mix-up: adobo seasoning. This is completely different from either of the sauces we’ve discussed! Adobo seasoning is a dry, all-purpose spice blend, popular in Latin American cuisine, usually containing garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt. It’s fantastic for seasoning meats, vegetables, and rice, adding a savory, aromatic flavor without the liquid or smokiness of the sauces.

Where to Buy Adobo Seasoning

You’ll find adobo seasoning much more widely available than bottled Filipino adobo sauce. Where to Buy ABEO Shoes: Your Ultimate Guide to Comfort

• Grocery Store Spice Aisle: Head to the spice section of almost any supermarket. Brands like Goya Adobo Seasoning are ubiquitous and you’ll often see “with pepper” or “without pepper” varieties. McCormick and other store brands also make their versions.
• Specialty Spice Shops: Stores like The Spice House offer their own unique blends of adobo seasoning, often with options like “salt-free”. These can offer a fresh, high-quality spice blend experience.
• Online Retailers: Amazon, of course, has a vast selection of Adobo Seasoning from various brands, including large economy-sized containers for serious cooks. Websites like My Spice Sage and North Market Spices also sell high-quality adobo seasoning blends.

Beyond the Basics: Other Adobo-Related Finds

Sometimes your search for “adobo sauce” leads you down other delicious paths! Here are a couple of related items that often come up:

Chipotle Paste

This is essentially a more concentrated version of the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, often found in a tube rather than a can. It’s great if you only need a small amount of that smoky, spicy flavor and want to avoid opening a whole can. While the flavor profile can be slightly different less of the adobo sauce’s complexity, more pure pepper, it’s a convenient alternative.

• Where to Buy: Check the international aisle near other specialty chili products or sometimes in the condiment section of larger grocery stores. Online, search for Chipotle Paste on Amazon or specialty food sites.

Raspberry Chipotle Sauce

This is a totally different beast but frequently searched alongside “adobo sauce” due to the “chipotle” connection. Raspberry chipotle sauce is a sweet and spicy condiment, often used as a glaze for meats, a dipping sauce, or even a unique dressing. It’s got a lovely fruity tang with a smoky, mild heat.

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• Where to Buy:
  • Major Grocery Stores: Look in the gourmet condiment section, BBQ sauce aisle, or specialty sauce area. Brands like Fischer & Wieser’s The Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce are popular.
  • Target: You’ll find brands like Tabasco, B.Bob’s, and Good & Gather offering raspberry chipotle sauces.
  • Walmart: They carry The Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce.
  • Online Retailers: Amazon, of course, has a wide range of Raspberry Chipotle Sauce options. You might also find it on specialty food websites or even eBay.

Subway Chipotle Southwest Sauce

Many folks love the creamy, tangy, and spicy kick of Subway’s Chipotle Southwest Sauce and wish they could buy it in a bottle. Unfortunately, Subway generally doesn’t sell its signature sauces retail, so you won’t typically find official Subway brand Chipotle Southwest Sauce in grocery stores.

• Alternatives: Your best bet is to look for chipotle ranch dressings or chipotle southwest dressings from other brands in the salad dressing aisle of your grocery store. Many brands make similar creamy chipotle sauces that can give you a comparable flavor profile for your homemade sandwiches or salads. You can also find recipes online to make a copycat version yourself using ingredients like mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

Buying Adobo Sauce in the UK and Other Regions

Finding specific international ingredients can sometimes be a bit more challenging outside of the US, but it’s far from impossible!

For Mexican Adobo Chipotle in Adobo Sauce in the UK

• Online Specialty Grocers: This is your best bet! Websites like Mexgrocer UK, Sous Chef, and American Food Mart specialize in importing Mexican and American ingredients and frequently stock brands like La Costena Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce.
• Larger Supermarkets: Some larger UK supermarkets with extensive international food sections might carry canned chipotle peppers in adobo. Look in the “World Foods” aisle, specifically the American or Mexican sections. It might be less common than in the US, but it’s worth a look.
• Amazon UK: Of course, Amazon is a global marketplace, and you’ll find various brands of Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce UK available for delivery.

For Filipino Adobo Sauce in the UK

• Asian/Filipino Markets: Just like in the US, dedicated Asian or Filipino grocery stores are your prime location. Search for “Filipino grocery London” or similar terms in major cities.
• Online Asian Grocers: Websites specializing in Asian imports will often carry Filipino adobo sauces or mixes.
• Amazon UK: You might find limited options for Filipino Adobo Sauce UK or Filipino soy sauces on Amazon UK.

Making Your Own Adobo Sauce

If finding the perfect bottled adobo sauce feels like too much work, or you just love a good DIY project, making your own is always an option!

• Mexican Adobo Sauce for Chipotle in Adobo: While you can technically make adobo sauce from dried chilies like ancho and guajillo chiles and spices, it’s a more involved process. For most home cooks, the canned chipotles in adobo are the convenient and flavorful standard.
• Filipino Adobo Sauce: This one is super easy to whip up from scratch! All you need are a few staple ingredients: soy sauce preferably a Filipino brand like Silver Swan or Datu Puti for authenticity, but any good quality soy sauce works, vinegar cane vinegar is traditional, but white vinegar or apple cider vinegar are fine, lots of fresh garlic, black peppercorns, and often a bay leaf or two. There are countless recipes online for Filipino Chicken Adobo that will guide you through making the sauce as part of the dish.

Tips for a Smooth Shopping Experience

• Know Your Adobo: Before you head out, figure out if you need Mexican chipotle in adobo peppers or Filipino adobo sauce. This will save you a lot of time!
• Check Online Inventories: Many large grocery stores have online shopping portals or apps that show in-stock items and even their aisle location. Use these to your advantage before you even leave home.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: If you’re in a physical store and can’t find what you’re looking for, ask a staff member. Just be clear about whether you’re looking for “canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce” or a “Filipino adobo marinade.”
• Embrace the International Aisle: This section of the grocery store is a goldmine for unique and delicious ingredients. Take some time to explore!

Finding adobo sauce really doesn’t have to be a mystery. With a little knowledge of what you’re looking for and where to look, you’ll be adding those incredible flavors to your meals in no time. Happy cooking! Finding Your Way: Where to Buy AA Coins Near You and Beyond

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between adobo sauce and chipotle in adobo?

This is the most common point of confusion! “Chipotle in adobo sauce” refers to a specific product: a can of smoked jalapeño peppers chipotles submerged in a savory, tangy, spiced tomato-based sauce. This is a Mexican-inspired ingredient. On the other hand, “adobo sauce” can also refer to Filipino Adobo Sauce, which is a distinct, non-spicy, savory-sour marinade or stew base made primarily from soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns. They are two entirely different culinary traditions and flavor profiles.

Can you buy just adobo sauce without the peppers?

Yes, but it depends on which “adobo sauce” you mean! If you’re looking for the liquid from the can of chipotles in adobo without the peppers, you technically can scoop it out, but it’s not typically sold separately in a bottle. The sauce and peppers are meant to be together, and many recipes call for blending the whole contents of the can. However, if you’re looking for Filipino adobo sauce, yes, you absolutely can buy this bottled as a standalone marinade or cooking sauce, as discussed in the “Filipino Adobo Sauce” section.

Where is adobo sauce in the grocery store?

For chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, head to the international aisle, specifically the Mexican or Latin American foods section. It’s usually near other canned chiles, salsas, or even canned tomatoes. For Filipino adobo sauce, your best bet is often a dedicated Asian or Filipino grocery store. In larger general supermarkets, you might find it in an expanded international aisle. Adobo seasoning the dry spice blend is in the regular spice aisle.

Does Walmart sell adobo seasoning?

Yes, Walmart definitely sells adobo seasoning! You can find popular brands like Goya Adobo All Purpose Seasoning in their spice aisle. They usually have varieties both with and without pepper.

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Is adobo sauce spicy?

Again, this depends on the type. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are definitely spicy! Chipotles are smoked jalapeños, and while the adobo sauce mellows some of the raw heat, they still pack a medium-hot kick around 2,500-8,000 Scoville Heat Units, similar to a jalapeño. Filipino adobo sauce, however, is typically savory and tangy, not spicy at all. The heat in Filipino cuisine often comes from added chilies in separate dishes, not from the adobo sauce itself.

Can you substitute adobo sauce with adobo seasoning?

No, these are not interchangeable! You cannot substitute adobo sauce either Mexican or Filipino with adobo seasoning directly. Adobo seasoning is a dry spice blend meant to season food. Mexican adobo sauce chipotle in adobo is a wet, smoky, spicy, and tangy condiment. Filipino adobo sauce is a wet, savory, and sour marinade/stew base. Using one in place of the other would drastically change the flavor, texture, and liquid content of your dish. Always use the specific ingredient called for in a recipe.