Sofrito is a lovely sauce for South America and the Caribbean. This vegetarian delight is perfect for creating the base of stews and soups. This simple recipe takes perfect ingredients and combines them to form an even better flavour.
Sofrito is a vibrant, aromatic blend of vegetables and herbs that forms the cornerstone of many dishes in Latin American, Spanish, and Caribbean cuisines. This versatile mixture is a culinary secret weapon, infusing recipes with a depth of flavor that elevates even the simplest ingredients.
The Essence of Sofrito
At its core, sofrito typically includes finely chopped onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The ingredients are sautéed in oil until they meld into a fragrant, flavorful base. Regional variations abound, adding unique twists to this fundamental blend. In Puerto Rican cuisine, for instance, sofrito often features cilantro, culantro, and ají dulce (a sweet chili pepper), giving it a distinctive, aromatic profile. The Spanish version, on the other hand, might incorporate paprika for a smoky undertone.
The Culinary Workhorse
What makes this recipe indispensable is its versatility. It’s the starting point for an array of dishes, from hearty stews and soups to rice and beans. In Puerto Rico, sofrito is a key ingredient in arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas) and mofongo (mashed plantains). In Cuba, it forms the base for ropa vieja, a savory shredded beef dish. The beauty of sofrito lies in its ability to adapt, enhancing flavors without overpowering the main ingredients.
Crafting Your Own Sofrito
Making it at home is simple and rewarding. Start by finely chopping your vegetables and herbs. Heat a good amount of olive oil in a pan and sauté the onions and garlic until they’re translucent. Add the bell peppers and tomatoes, cooking until they soften and meld together. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs your regional preference dictates. Once prepared, sofrito can be stored in the refrigerator for a week or frozen for longer periods, ready to be a flavorful foundation whenever needed.
Sofrito is more than just a cooking base; it’s a culinary tradition that brings a burst of flavor and a touch of culture to every dish. It is simply a superb recipe to have in your repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin olive oil
- 2-3 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 large green bell pepper seed/chop
- 1 cup tomato deseeded
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/4 tsp ground oregano
- 1/2 bunch cilantro coriander/ chopped
- salt to taste
Instructions
Nutrition
Calories: 2kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.1g | Protein: 0.01g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 0.1mg | Potassium: 3mg | Fiber: 0.01g | Sugar: 0.03g