What can I use if I can't find culantro (recao) or ajíes dulces?

Use extra cilantro in place of culantro. For ajíes dulces, substitute red bell pepper plus a pinch of sugar for sweetness; add a mild chile if you want gentle heat.

Should sofrito be cooked or used raw?

Both work. Raw sofrito tastes bright and herbal; sautéed sofrito becomes sweeter and deeper. Always bloom sofrito in a little oil for 30–60 seconds before adding liquids to wake up its aromatics.

How much sofrito should I add to dishes?

Use 1–2 Tbsp per cup of raw rice, 2–3 Tbsp for a pot of beans or per pound of meat, and 1–2 Tbsp for quick sautés of eggs, shrimp, or vegetables.

How long does sofrito last?

Refrigerate up to 7 days in a sealed jar or freeze in portions up to 3 months. Freeze in ice-cube trays for easy drop-in use.

National Sofrito Day 🧄🌶🍅 — Flavorful Latin Base for Authentic Dishes

Name: Classic Puerto Rican–Style Sofrito
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: ~4 cups (32 Tbsp)
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped; 6–8 garlic cloves, peeled; 1 bunch cilantro (tender stems ok); 8–10 culantro/recao leaves (optional); 6–8 ajíes dulces (or 1/2 red bell pepper); 2 small Roma tomatoes or 1/2 cup tomato puree; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cumin (optional); 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt, to taste

National Sofrito Day is a holiday that celebrates the beloved seasoning that is an essential component of Latin American cuisine. Sofrito is a fragrant blend of herbs, spices, and aromatics that is used to add flavor and depth to many dishes, such as stews, soups, rice, beans, and meat.

This holiday is observed on the second Saturday of June every year, and it’s a great opportunity to learn about the history and cultural significance of this versatile seasoning.

The origins of sofrito can be traced back to the indigenous people of the Caribbean, who used a blend of vegetables and herbs to flavor their dishes. When the Spanish colonizers arrived in the region in the 15th century, they introduced new ingredients such as onions, garlic, and tomatoes, which were eventually incorporated into the local cuisine.

Over time, sofrito evolved into a unique blend of ingredients that varies by region and even by household. Some common ingredients include onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, cilantro, culantro, oregano, and annatto seeds.

Sofrito is typically prepared by sautéing the ingredients in oil until they are softened and fragrant. The resulting mixture is then used as a base for many dishes, such as arroz con pate, picadillo, and ropa vieja.

In addition to adding flavor to dishes, sofrito also has several health benefits. Many of the ingredients used in sofrito, such as garlic, onions, and peppers, are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients have also been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses.

To celebrate National Sofrito Day, you can try making your own sofrito at home. Here’s a simple recipe that you can follow:

Ingredients:

1 onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon of tomato paste

1 tablespoon of olive oil

1 teaspoon of dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add the onion and bell peppers and sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the garlic, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper, and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool.

Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.

Store the sofrito in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.

LEARN how to make The Best Puerto Rican SOFRITO Mi Sofrito Fresquecito Base to BORICUA Cuisine

Sofrito is a flavorful and versatile seasoning that has a rich history and cultural significance. Celebrate National Sofrito Day by trying out this recipe or incorporating sofrito into your favorite Latin American dishes. Your taste buds and your health will thank you.