How to Use Sofrito

Sofrito from Jenny's Chickens

Sofrito is a sauce found in Latin American cooking. Its root word means "to sauté," and that is what you will do with a variety of vegetables and spices to create the sauce. Recipes for sofrito vary, but the base consists of onions and tomatoes, and most will also call for salt, pepper, garlic and cilantro.

You can use it as a topping for anything that needs a little extra boost of flavor, such as scrambled eggs, chicken, or fish and as a stir-in seasoning for soups and stews.

Sofrito can be made in large quanties and kept for about a week in an airtight container, or frozen in for up to six months. Additionally, you can find it pre-made online and at your local grocer.

Things You'll Need

• A skillet or sauté pan About 2 tablespoons of oil or butter to coat the bottom of the pan One large chopped tomato One chopped onion 1/4 cup roughly chopped cilantro Salt and pepper to taste Optional add-ins: 1 to 2 cloves minced garlic 12 chopped scallions Diced red and green bell peppers

Instructions

Making Sofrito

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter (or heat olive oil) in a sauté pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add chopped onions and sauté until transparent. (Incorporate optional add-ins before step 3).

3. Add chopped scallions and tomato, and simmer until softened and broken down. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Stir in roughly chopped cilantro a minute or so before removing from the stovetop.

5. Use as a topping for fish, meat, poultry, eggs or as a stir-in for your soups and stews. Freeze in 1/4- to 1/2-cup portions for later use.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't have the time to make your own? You can purchase Goya brand sofrito in most grocery stores or order Jenny's Chickens' brand online in two flavors at jennyschickens.com.

References

• Food Network Video: Sofrito
• Wikipedia: Sofrito
• About.com: Latin Foods