Sofrito
Sofrito is a foundational flavor base used in many Latin American, Spanish, and Italian cuisines, typically made by slowly sautéing aromatic ingredients like onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes in olive oil. It serves as the starting point for countless stews, rice dishes, soups, and sauces, building a deep, savory flavor profile. While recipes vary by region, its core purpose is to create a rich, aromatic foundation for other ingredients.
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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
As a base ingredient, sofrito is generally low in protein and carbohydrates but can be moderately high in fat due to the olive oil used for cooking. It provides key nutrients like vitamins A and C from the peppers and tomatoes, along with antioxidants and healthy monounsaturated fats from the oil. A typical serving (about 1/4 cup) might contain roughly 50-80 calories, depending on the oil-to-vegetable ratio.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbs | 14 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
| Vitamin A | 1200 IU |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 45 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Folate | 60 mcg |
| Vitamin K | 15 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Sofrito is culturally fascinating because it's a universal concept in Mediterranean and Latin cooking, yet each region gives it a unique twist—like using ají dulce in Caribbean versions or saffron in Spanish ones. Nutritionally, it's a smart way to pack flavor and micronutrients into a dish without adding excessive calories, making it a cornerstone of many healthy traditional diets.
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AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms