Homemade Sazon (No, It’s Sofrito!)
Description:
Sazon is a common seasoning used in Caribbean cooking and also in Spain. Try this homemade version! Two reviewers have told me this is actually a sofrito, that sazon is a dry mix. I’m so sorry if I have offended anyone. I don’t remember where I got this (some magazine long ago), so they were misinformed. I do hope you enjoy it anyway!
Recipe Category:
Caribbean
Keywords:
- Spanish
- European
- Low Protein
- Low Cholesterol
- Healthy
- < 30 Mins
- Small Appliance
- Easy
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup onion
- 3 green peppers
- 3 green onions
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 4 tablespoons fresh coriander
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons white vinegar
- 4 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup diced pimentos
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions:
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Combine all the ingredients in a blender. Process until the mixture is smooth.
-
Cook the Mixture:
- Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
-
Simmer:
- Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
-
Cool:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool down.
-
Chill:
- Once cooled, cover the mixture and chill it in the refrigerator.
Yield: About 1 cup.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 263.1
- Fat Content: 18.9 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2.7 g
- Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
- Sodium Content: 996.6 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 23 g
- Fiber Content: 6.2 g
- Sugar Content: 11.9 g
- Protein Content: 4.5 g
Reviews and Ratings:
- Aggregated Rating: 4
- Review Count: 8
About Sazon and Sofrito
Sazon vs. Sofrito:
- Sazon: Typically a dry seasoning blend used to add flavor to dishes. It often contains ingredients like coriander, cumin, annatto, garlic powder, and salt.
- Sofrito: A flavorful cooking base made from blended fresh ingredients like onions, peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s used to add depth and richness to a variety of dishes.
Using Your Homemade Sofrito:
This homemade sofrito is incredibly versatile and can be used to enhance the flavor of numerous dishes, such as:
- Soups and Stews: Add a couple of tablespoons to your favorite soups and stews for a burst of flavor.
- Rice and Beans: Mix it into rice or bean dishes for added depth.
- Marinades: Use it as a marinade for meats and seafood.
- Sauces: Incorporate it into sauces for pasta or other dishes.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store the sofrito in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sofrito in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can use a cube or two as needed.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier sofrito, add some chili peppers or hot sauce.
- Freshness: For the best flavor, use fresh herbs and vegetables when making your sofrito.
Cultural Significance:
- Caribbean Cuisine: Sofrito is a staple in many Caribbean kitchens. It forms the foundation of numerous traditional dishes and is prized for its ability to enhance flavors.
- Spanish Influence: The use of sofrito in cooking also has roots in Spanish cuisine, where it is used similarly as a base for many dishes.
Conclusion:
This homemade sofrito is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a flavorful base that can elevate a variety of dishes. Despite the initial confusion about its classification, its versatility and rich taste make it a valuable ingredient in both Caribbean and Spanish cooking traditions. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and incorporating it into your favorite meals!
