Coditos en Salsa Marinara Estilo Boricua
Introduction: Coditos en salsa marinara estilo boricua is a beloved dish in Puerto Rican cuisine that marries the comforting texture of elbow macaroni with a rich, flavorful marinara sauce infused with the vibrant flavors of the island. This dish is a staple in many Puerto Rican households, often served as a main course for lunch or dinner. The marinara sauce is enhanced with traditional sofrito, a mixture of aromatic ingredients that forms the base of many Puerto Rican dishes, giving the sauce a unique and delicious twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni (coditos)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sofrito (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and both bell peppers, sautéing them until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Incorporate the Sofrito:
- Stir in the sofrito, mixing well with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sofrito to release its flavors and aromas into the mixture.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to combine with the vegetables and sofrito. Add the dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Season to Taste:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too acidic, you can add a pinch more sugar. If it needs more depth, add a bit more cumin or smoked paprika. The sauce should be rich, slightly tangy, and well-balanced.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet or saucepan. Toss the pasta in the sauce until each piece is well coated. Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors absorb into the macaroni.
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and basil (if using). These fresh herbs add a burst of freshness and elevate the overall flavor of the dish.
- Serve:
- Serve the coditos en salsa marinara hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish is perfect on its own or can be paired with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.
Conclusion: Coditos en salsa marinara estilo boricua is a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the fusion of Puerto Rican and Italian culinary traditions. The sofrito and fresh herbs give the marinara sauce a distinctive taste, making it a unique and delicious way to enjoy pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit, offering a taste of Puerto Rican warmth and hospitality in every bite. Enjoy this dish as part of your regular meal rotation or bring it out for special occasions—it’s versatile, easy to make, and always satisfying.
