Sofrito

Cuban Spice Paste

1 cup olive oil

1/2 pound cooked ham, chopped

8 garlic cloves, chopped

2 cachucha peppers, seeded and chopped (may substitute bell peppers)

2 large onions, chopped

1 tablespoon oregano

1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

2 tomatoes, chopped

Grind the whole mess up in the food processor. Cook the mixture over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This one will keep in the refrigerator for about two weeks.

 

Sofrito 2

 

2 strips bacon, diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper finely chopped

 
Brown the bacon in a frying pan over medium heat. Pour off the fat. Add olive oil and remaining sofrito ingredients. Cook over medium heat until onions are limp. Use immediately.