This is made raw and frozen, not cooked, because it is a base rather than a sauce. Two cubes go into the pot with hot oil at the start of a dish and cook from there. Culantro, not cilantro, is what makes it taste Puerto Rican — long serrated leaves, much stronger, and worth hunting for.
The ratio2 onions + 3 cubanelle + 1 head garlic + 1 bunch culantro, blitzed raw. Freeze in cubes.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cooknone
Makes3 cups
CuisinePuerto Rican
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for3cups
Our ratio, your call. The amounts below are a tested starting point — a version, not the one and only. Anything tagged to taste is the knob you turn: start there, then make it yours.
Cubanelle peppers
Three, seeded. Mild and sweet — bell peppers are the common substitute.
Rough chop everythingNo need for precision — it all goes in the processor.
Pulse, don't puréeShort pulses to a coarse, wet mince with visible flecks. A smooth purée turns watery in the freezer.
Do not cook itThis is a raw base. It cooks when it hits the pan at the start of a dish.
Freeze in cubesIce cube trays, then bagged once solid. Two cubes is roughly the right amount to start a pot of rice, beans or stew. Keeps six months.
Make it yoursRecaito is the all-green version with no tomato. Add a tomato and achiote and it moves toward a Spanish sofrito. A spoon into scrambled eggs is a good use for the odd cube.
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make How to Make Sofrito ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it keeps in the fridge for several days; stir or shake it before serving.
Is How to Make Sofrito gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is How to Make Sofrito vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
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