Here's how to do it:
5 cloves of garlic, crushed and minced
1 onion, minced
chicken
potatoes, cubed (optional)
pepper
bay leaves (just 1-2 is fine, optional)
1 ladle full of soy sauce
1 ladle full of vinegar
1 cup of water (another cup is optional)
1) Sautee garlic till golden brown.
2) Sautee onion with the garlic for 20 seconds.
3) Sautee the potatoes.
4) Add the chicken.
5) Add the pepper.
6) Add the vinegar, soy sauce and water. Let everything cook for 45 minutes minimum in low heat (one hour is recommended).
7) Once the chicken is cooked, add bay leaves.
8) This step is optional. You can add water (gradually) for a 'saucy' adobo, or you can let the sauce dry up slowly (but not completely so as to avoid burning the chicken).
Note: water is added so as not to make the dish way too salty. Too much soy sauce will overpower the vinegar, and vice versa.
There are some recipes that add sugar to the dish, and yes, it tastes good too. Any case, sugar is optional (and gradually added). Up to your taste buds on whether to add or disregard it.
Also, don't add cilantro and jalapeno. Don't listen to Western chefs trying to cook it. lol