Sofrito Rico

Sofrito is known as recaito or sazón in Puerto Rico, sazón in the Dominican Republic, hogao in Colombia, chimichurri in Argentina, hogo in Ecuador or refrito in Peru. Each country has its own flavor, and though there are slight variations in their recipes, they all enhance a dish’s flavor.

In Puerto Rican cuisine
In Puerto Rico, sofrito always faithfully accompanies beans and it’s the eternal companion of meat, chicken, soups, green beans and rice. Some call this seasoning the “King of Salsa." And, if it’s not included, the dish is simply not the same. Its basic ingredients include onions, pepper, sweet peppers, red peppers, garlic, oregano and cilantro.

In Cuban cuisine
For Cubans, the main ingredients are onions, garlic and green pepper. It is the foundation of such dishes as rice and beans, and stews like ropa vieja and picadillo. The other ingredients in this seasoning include dry white wine, bay leaf, cumin and cilantro. Some people even add sausage, ham and bacon, but that’s optional.

In Dominican cuisine
Dominicans also call sofrito sazón, but it’s very different from Puerto Rican version. The mixture has a thinner consistency and includes vinegar, water and tomato juice. It is used to flavor rice dishes, stews and beans, among others. A traditional Dominican sofrito consists of chopped red and green peppers, red onion, garlic, achiote, apple vinegar, tomato paste, water and cilantro.

Here’s how to make the Puerto Rican-style sofrito. Add it to your favorite recipes! The amounts of the ingredients can vary, add to taste.

Ingredients

• 2 Spanish white onions, peeled
• 8 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 red bell pepper, stemmed
• 1 green bell pepper, stemmed
• 10 sweet peppers, small, no heat
• 1 bunch cilantro, if desired
• 1 fresh oregano sprig
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

Chop the onions into large pieces. Place in food processor with the peppers and process until reached the desired consistency. With processor running (on), add the remaining ingredients. The mixture may be stored in the refrigerator in small containers with lids or in resealable plastic bags.