Vegan Boricua

Puerto Rican Vegan Savoy Cabbage with Traditional Sofrito and Sazón for a Flavorful Twist

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Puerto Rican Vegan Savoy Cabbage: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

When it comes to Puerto Rican cuisine, the blend of flavors and cultural heritage is unparalleled. Here, we’re going to give the traditional Savoy cabbage a vibrant Puerto Rican vegan twist, incorporating the iconic spice blends and fresh ingredients that make Puerto Rican cooking so beloved.

The Cultural Significance

Puerto Rican cuisine is a rich tapestry of influences from the Taíno people, Spanish colonizers, and African traditions. The use of Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito – the trio of Puerto Rican flavor – is essential in capturing the authentic taste of the island. These blends not only add depth and color to dishes but also carry the history and love of the Puerto Rican people.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium Savoy cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Sofrito (see below for homemade Sofrito recipe)
  • 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Sazón
  • 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Adobo
  • 1 cup cooked black beans (or other beans of your choice)
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Homemade Sofrito Recipe:

  • 1 bunch culantro (recao leaves)
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • 6–8 ají dulce peppers (or substitute with cubanelle or bell peppers)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 head garlic, peeled
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2–3 ripe tomatoes or 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (optional)

Roughly chop all ingredients and blend in a food processor until smooth. Add olive oil if needed. Freeze in ice cube trays for long-term use.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sofrito: If using frozen Sofrito, thaw it first. If making fresh, blend all the ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

  2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it starts to soften, about 1 minute. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.

  3. Add the Sofrito: Add 2-3 tablespoons of the Sofrito to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to “awaken.”

  4. Add the Cabbage and Carrots: Add the thinly sliced Savoy cabbage and diced carrots to the skillet. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the cabbage has softened to your preference.

  5. Season with Sazón and Adobo: Sprinkle the Puerto Rican Sazón and Adobo over the cabbage mixture. Stir well to combine.

  6. Add the Black Beans: Stir in the cooked black beans. This adds protein and a hearty texture to the dish.

  7. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

  8. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve as a main dish or side, accompanied by rice, beans, or your favorite Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo or arroz con gandules.

Tips and Variations

  • Use TVP or Tofu for Added Protein: If you prefer a different protein source, you can add textured vegetable protein (TVP) or cubed tofu to the dish. TVP is easily available in Puerto Rico and is a very affordable option.
  • Adjust the Heat: For those who love a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the Sofrito or use hot sauce to taste.
  • Experiment with Different Cabbages: While Savoy cabbage is used here, you can also experiment with green or purple cabbage for different textures and flavors.

Conclusion

This Puerto Rican Vegan Savoy Cabbage is a testament to the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of Puerto Rico. With the use of Sofrito, Sazón, and Adobo, this dish is not only delicious but also deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Puerto Rican cuisine or just discovering its wonders, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. ¡Buen provecho

  1. Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials

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