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Puerto Rican Vegan Garlic and Broccoli with Lemon is a Flavorful Twist on Traditional Cuisine

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Puerto Rican Vegan Garlic and Broccoli with Lemon: A Flavorful Twist

In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there’s a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that can be beautifully adapted to vegan dishes. Here’s a vibrant and delicious vegan version of a classic, infused with the essence of Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rican Vegan Garlic and Broccoli with Lemon

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (or TVP for a textured alternative, easily available in Puerto Rico)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Puerto Rican Sofrito (see below for recipe)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Adobo (see below for recipe)
  • 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Sazón (optional, for color and depth)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or culantro for garnish

Puerto Rican Sofrito Recipe (for this dish):

  • 1/4 cup chopped culantro (recao leaves)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 ají dulce pepper (or cubanelle/bell pepper), chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. You can add a little olive oil if needed.

Puerto Rican Adobo Recipe (for this dish):

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper

Mix all ingredients thoroughly.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sofrito and Adobo:

    • Blend the sofrito ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
    • Mix the adobo ingredients in a bowl.

  2. Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms:

    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Add the sliced mushrooms (or TVP) and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Add the Sofrito and Adobo:

    • Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared sofrito to the skillet and sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
    • Sprinkle the adobo over the mushrooms and stir well.

  4. Add Broccoli and Seasonings:

    • Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. If using sazón, sprinkle it over the broccoli.
    • Stir well to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.

  5. Finish with Lemon Juice:

    • Squeeze the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the dish and stir to combine.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Serve:

    • Garnish with fresh cilantro or culantro.
    • Serve hot, perhaps with a side of rice or tostones for a complete meal.

The Cultural Significance

Puerto Rican cuisine is a vibrant blend of Taíno, Spanish, and African influences, and this dish honors that heritage. The use of sofrito, adobo, and sazón brings the authentic flavors of the island to your table. Sofrito, with its aromatic blend of herbs and vegetables, forms the base of many traditional dishes. Adobo, with its bold and savory flavor, enhances the taste of any protein or vegetable. Sazón adds a golden-red color and depth, reminiscent of the island’s rich culinary history.

Tips and Variations

  • Balance of Flavors: For a savory dish like this, a splash of vinegar can help balance the flavors and add a touch of health benefits.
  • Affordable Options: TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) is a very affordable and easily available option in Puerto Rico, making it an excellent substitute for mushrooms.
  • Flexibility: Feel free to use beans as an alternative to TVP or mushrooms for added protein and fiber.

This Puerto Rican Vegan Garlic and Broccoli with Lemon is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions. It brings the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine to your kitchen, with a vegan twist that makes it accessible and delicious for everyone. Enjoy

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