If you're looking for a flavorful addition to your meals, Sofrito is a great choice. 1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 488 calories. This mixture of aromatic herbs and vegetables is a staple in Latin American cooking, and it's easy to see why.

The primary ingredients in Sofrito are onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes, although regional variations may include other ingredients such as cilantro, culantro, or achiote. With its combination of bold flavors and health benefits, Sofrito is a great way to add some variety to your diet.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional content of Sofrito, as well as some healthy ways to incorporate it into your meals.

What is Sofrito?

Sofrito is a fragrant base used in many Latin American and Caribbean dishes. It's typically made from a combination of onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes, all of which are finely chopped and cooked together in oil. This mixture is a staple ingredient in dishes like rice and beans, stews, soups, and sauces. The exact recipe varies from region to region, and even from household to household, but the basic ingredients remain the same. Sofrito is an easy and delicious way to add flavor and depth to your cooking.

Calorie Count

1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 488 calories. While this may seem like a lot, keep in mind that Sofrito is primarily used as a base or a condiment, so you won't be consuming it in large quantities. When used in moderation, Sofrito can be a healthy addition to your meals. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, and can help you cut down on added fats and sugars in your recipes.

Serving Size

A serving size of Sofrito is typically 2 tablespoons (30.0 g). This amount contains approximately 40 calories, so it's a low-calorie way to add flavor to your meals. However, keep in mind that the calorie count can vary depending on the recipe, so be sure to check the label or calculate the calories yourself if you're watching your intake.

Carbohydrates

1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 53 grams of carbohydrates. While this may seem like a lot, keep in mind that the majority of the carbs come from vegetables like onions, peppers, and tomatoes, which are all nutrient-dense and good for you. If you're trying to limit your carb intake, using a smaller amount of Sofrito or spreading it over several servings can help keep your overall intake in check while still adding delicious flavor to your meals.

Protein

1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 9 grams of protein. While this isn't a huge amount, it's still a good source of plant-based protein that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, the protein comes from the vegetables in the Sofrito, which means you're also getting a dose of vitamins and minerals with every serving.

Fat Content

1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 21 grams of fat. While this may seem like a lot, most of the fat comes from heart-healthy olive oil, which is a staple in many Mediterranean diets. In addition, the fat in the Sofrito helps your body absorb the vitamins and minerals from the vegetables more effectively, so it's a win-win.

Vitamin C

1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 183% of your recommended daily value of vitamin C. This crucial nutrient helps support your immune system, promote healthy skin, and even boost iron absorption. With so much vitamin C in every serving, Sofrito is a great way to give your body a boost of this important nutrient.

Sodium

1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 1,474 milligrams of sodium. While this may seem like a lot, keep in mind that most of the sodium comes from the salt that's added during the cooking process. If you're watching your sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of salt in your Sofrito recipe or use a low-sodium variety. Additionally, using a smaller amount of Sofrito in your dishes can help reduce your overall sodium intake.

Fiber Content

1 cup (206.0 g) of Sofrito contains 10 grams of fiber. With its high fiber content, Sofrito can help support healthy digestion, promote feelings of fullness, and even reduce your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Plus, the fiber in the Sofrito comes from the vegetables, which means you're also getting a dose of essential vitamins and minerals with every serving.

Healthy Recipe Ideas

Now that you know more about the nutritional content of Sofrito, here are some healthy recipe ideas to help you incorporate it into your meals: - Use Sofrito as a base for rice and beans dishes for a pop of flavor and nutrition. - Add Sofrito to soups and stews for a fragrant and flavorful stock that can help enhance the taste of the entire meal.