Easy Sofrito

A sofrito is similar to a mirepoix and is used to create a flavor base for many dishes. Sofrito’s can be of Spanish, Italian, Portugese, Latin American, and other cultural cooking. The following is a quick and easy sofrito you can use to create traditional flavors in your Méxican cooking.

• 4 Roma Tomatoes, diced
• 1 White Onion, medium, diced
• 1 Jalapeño pepper, diced
• 1 Poblano pepper, diced
• 1 Clove of Garlic, medium, minced
• 1/4 c. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Pinch of Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black Pepper

In a large pan heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the rest of the ingredients and stir to coat with the oil. Cook over a medium flame until the ingredients have softened to a point of forming a jam. Use immediately, or place in an ice cube tray and freeze.

Additional ingredients, such as cilantro, paprika, caraway, or basil can be added; and bell peppers substituted for the poblano and jalapeño, to convey different regional flavors. To create a heartier sofrito, fry 1 tablespoon of tomato paste in the olive oil for a minute, stirring constantly, before adding the other ingredients.

Ingredients may also be coarse chopped and cooked only to the point of softening when a more rustic feel is desired.