There is nothing like a good meal inspired by your roots! Throughout the years, I’ve been able to incorporate my love for my Caribbean dishes to my children. I have learned a few tricks of the trade (he! No Chef here!). And I’m here to show and tell, the bits that I have learned throughout my motherhood journey and embracing my Caribbean traditions within the kitchen.

Mom making a meal surrounded by family and friends in the kitchen

My upbringing- The start of how-to meal prep

I grew up in a very traditional home. Meaning, no English was spoken in the house. Also, my father ensured that the food that was being cooked was fresh and to a traditional pallet. Because of my household situation my cooking journey started as the tender age of 8 years old. As a matter of fact, it started as a punishment to place me in the kitchen with vigorous instructions and tight timelines. If you want to take a detour and read my childhood traumas here.

Little did they know that, upon my introduction to cooking, I ended up truly enjoying my time in the kitchen. Because my abusive father would constantly insert himself and his discipline methods every chance he got when he would forcefully have me cook. Basically, I had to work throughout my anxiety and fears and adapt to a way of cooking that benefited by mental health and sanity. Additionally, I discovered ways on how to expedite my time and rush cook big meals.

A woman happily baking in the kitchen

My motivation

I clearly remember the first time; I modified his instructions. During that time, I hated how he wanted me to peel and grind every piece of garlic but then complain on how slow the food was being made. To cut on time, I bought myself a thrifted blender that I kept in the kitchen for my pre-seasoning mix. And no, he did not like any premade, store-bought seasonings other than adobo and sopita (chicken bouillon).

This is when, I discovered my talent in making out the famous, or should I say MY famous, SOFRITO. This is the base to every Carribean homemade cooking. Basically, this not only expedite your time in the kitchen but brings in all the flavors to your dishes!

Sofrito- Homemade seasoning

Every chef/cook has its own version. Mine has been the same for over 28 years! I have the recipe down to the T (lol). All in all, I try my best to always get the freshest ingredients that I use for this sofrito which are garlic, cilantro, onions (mix of different kinds) bell peppers (all colors depending on the mood), oregano, celery, and a few others secret ones. Above all, I make sure that when buying the ingredients I pick the ones with the strongest aroma.

The Sofrito

The secret is out! As can be seen the sofrito is my meal prep hack. Basically, I always have it premade and batched both in the fridge and freezer. Most certainly, my meals are NOT complete without this base!

Equally my children upbringing involves the SOFRITO. This is such a staple in my kitchen and my cooking, that they all have had their share of helping me make it?For a fact, they know Mama’s secret sauce has to be added, to make the dish flavorful!

At this point, I can add additional veggies into the Sofrito, and my children can’t tell the difference. Evidently this gives me the benefit of adding vegetables to their food in disguise. In my opinion, is a win-win for all. I can whip an entire meal, thanks to this premade hack in minutes! Yes! because the sofrito cuts down my time in the kitchen and even when in a rush your meals will be flavorsome. This is the Caribbean meal prep hack. Give it a try and make yourself some SOFRITO.