With its eclectic flavors, aromas that remind you of home, and wholesome ingredients, Latin cuisine means culture, tradition, and nourishment.
Though there are numerous ingredients that can give a Hispanic-inspired meal a delightful punch, sofrito, avocados, and cilantro will pack on the flavor and provide a boost to health and overall wellness, as well.
Sofrito
Though originally Mediterranean, sofrito is very commonly used in Latin cuisine. Its ingredients include tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and garlic, all blended with olive oil.
Sofrito’s ingredients are all rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals – such as vitamins C, A, and K – and potassium, folate, and magnesium. These nutrients can support heart health, immune health, reduce inflammation, and provide many other health benefits.
By incorporating sofrito into savory product offerings, such as soups, sauces, canned food options, or frozen entrees, food brands will not only infuse a traditional Latin taste but also keep the health of consumers in mind.
Avocado
Avocados have proven to be a nutritional powerhouse. Growing up in a Latin household means “aguacate” was and is a staple food eaten multiple times a week – or even eaten daily.
Avocados are a delicious and creamy fruit that are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, magnesium, and numerous vitamins, such as vitamins C, E, K, and B6, as noted by the World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. These nutrients can support digestive, bone, and cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of depression and many cancers, and also support weight loss, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Incorporating avocados into dips, dressings, sauces, soups, and spreads can enhance their textures, flavors, and nutritional profiles.
Cilantro
Whether using cilantro in cooking or adding freshly diced leaves over a meal, the herb packs a punch in every bite.
Though originally Mediterranean, cilantro has been a popular ingredient in Latin cuisine for centuries and packs numerous health benefits. Cilantro is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, folate, and manganese. Because of its nutrients, this powerful herb can reduce pain and inflammation, reduce or prevent epileptic episodes, may help reduce anxiety, and reduce the risk of multiple diseases, the National Library of Medicine noted.
Adding cilantro to salsas, sauces, ready-to-eat meals, or any savory food product can add impactful and fresh flavor.
