Vegan Boricua

Sancoche Recipe Highlights Puerto Rican Vegan Tradition

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Sofrito

Vegan Puerto Rican Sancocho: A Flavorful and Nourishing Tradition

In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine lies a dish that warms the soul and fills the belly: Sancocho. This hearty stew, often served during special occasions like Christmas, is a celebration of flavors, textures, and community. Here’s how you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this beloved tradition.

The Cultural Significance of Sancocho

Sancocho is more than just a meal; it’s a gathering. Imagine the aroma of simmering vegetables and roots filling your home, inviting everyone to the table. This stew has been a staple in Puerto Rican culture for generations, bringing families and friends together. In its vegan form, it remains just as vibrant and satisfying.

Ingredients

To make this vegan Sancocho, you’ll need a variety of root vegetables and some key seasonings:

  • 2 cups plantains, diced (about 3 plantains)
  • 2 cups green bananas, diced (about 4 bananas)
  • 2 cups yuca, diced (about 2 medium roots)
  • 2 cups yautia, diced (about 2 large roots)
  • 2 cups malanga, diced (about 1 large root)
  • 2 cups ñame, diced (about 1⁄2 a large root)
  • 2 cups potatoes, diced (about 2 large potatoes)
  • 1⁄2 cup olive oil
  • 15 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 cup Sofrito Base (see below for preparation)
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Adobo Seasoning Blend (see below for ingredients)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Sofrito Base Preparation

Sofrito is the backbone of many Puerto Rican dishes, adding a depth of flavor that’s hard to match.

  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil or Annatto Oil
  • 12 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 large white onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 1 Cubanelle pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 5 ají dulce peppers, seeds and ribs removed
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 7 sprigs of culantro (5 finely chopped, 2 whole)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or puree

Adobo Seasoning Blend

For an extra layer of flavor, use this Adobo blend:

  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano

Instructions

  1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the Sofrito and Adobo: Stir in the prepared Sofrito Base and Adobo Seasoning Blend. Cook for about 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced plantains, green bananas, yuca, yautia, malanga, ñame, and potatoes. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce and enough water to cover all the vegetables. Add salt, pepper, and the optional cayenne pepper.
  6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the vegetables are tender and the soup is thick, about 30-40 minutes.
  7. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Tips and Variations

  • Balance the Flavors: A splash of vinegar can balance the richness of the stew, but it’s optional.
  • Protein Alternatives: If you want to add protein, consider using textured vegetable protein (TVP), which is easily available in Puerto Rico and very affordable. Alternatively, you can use beans like kidney beans or chickpeas.
  • Storage: Sancocho freezes well. Store it in separate containers for easy reheating later.

Enjoying Your Vegan Sancocho

Serve your vegan Sancocho with some crusty bread or a side of fried plantains for an authentic touch. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. The combination of root vegetables and aromatic spices will transport you to the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, where every bite is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

So, gather around the table, share stories, and savor the delicious, comforting taste of vegan Sancocho. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect and cherish the moments that make life special.

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