Puerto Rican Sofrito

Sofrito is the flavor base of many dishes.  It is highly personal and the source of many friendly disputes among cooks.  This sofrito is one of many from Puerto Rico.

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 pound green peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1/8 pound sweet chili peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1/2 pound onion, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, chopped
• Leaves of 6 - 8 branches cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1/2 pound cooked ham
• 1/2 cup achiote lard or oil

Method

Put oil, peppers, chili, onion, garlic, cilantro and oregano in a food processor. Pulse until crushed together enough to just blend.  Add the ham and pulse until all ingredients are well blended and form a paste.

Put blended ingredients in a medium saucepan with achiote oil.  Bring to a boil.  When boiling, immediately lower heat to medium and cook at a healthy simmer for 15 minutes.  Stir frequently.

Set mixture aside to cool.  When cooled, put into a non-reactive container and store in the refrigerator.

Contributor: Joe Kirkpatrick

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