Instant Pot Pork Adobo

1 . Stage

Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot) and select Saute function. Once hot, add oil and pork pieces. Cook until meat is browned, about 5 minutes. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, 3 to 5 minutes. Mix in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add water, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and bay leaf; mix to combine. Turn off Saute mode.

2 . Stage

Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to manufacturer's instructions; set timer for 15 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.

3 . Stage

Release pressure using the natural-release method according to manufacturer's instructions, 10 to 40 minutes. Remove pork to a medium bowl and keep hot. Pour out half of the liquid and reserve.

4 . Stage

Turn on Saute mode again. Stir tapioca starch into remaining hot liquid in the pot to create a slurry. Cook until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Add in reserved liquid if sauce is too thick, 2 tablespoons at a time, or until desired consistency is achieved.