Sofrito Mashed Potatoes

What is sofrito?  An ingredient?  A way of preparing a specific ingredient?  Here's the answer to those questions and MORE!

Sofrito is a Spanish word referring to a culinary combination of aromatic ingredients which have been cut in very small pieces, and slowly (at least a quarter of an hour, but more usually half an hour) sauteed or braised in cooking oil.  Within the context of Spanish cuisine, sofrito consists of garlic, onion, and tomatoes cooked in olive oil, and is used as the base for many dishes.  I hope you paid attention. There could be a pop quiz at any time, ya know.

2 tablespoons salt

2 pounds potatoes (recommended: Yukon gold)

3 tablespoons canola oil

¼ cup chopped red onions

1 red bell pepper, chopped

½ green pepper, chopped

3 tablespoons chopped garlic

2 tablespoons tomato paste

¼ cup white wine

3 ounces tomato sauce

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

½ cup heavy cream

3 tablespoons salt

Salt and pepper

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves

Fill a large pot with water, salt and potatoes and bring to boil.  Cook until fork tender. Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium sauce pot over medium heat.  When oil is hot add onions and peppers and sauté for 3 minutes.  Add the garlic and cook until it begins to brown.  Lower the heat and add tomato paste and stir for 3 to 5 minutes.  Deglaze with white wine and reduce by half.

Add tomato sauce and bring to simmer for 5 minutes.  Then stir in butter and cream and set aside, covered to keep warm.

When potatoes are fork tender, drain water and mash slowly adding the sofrito mixture. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with cilantro.

From Food Network