Hogao - Colombian Tomato and Onion Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large tomatoes, diced 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the onions and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions are translucent and slightly caramelized.
3. 3.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, sugar, and cumin. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Allow the hogao to cool slightly before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can replace it with fresh parsley for a slightly different flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a finely chopped jalapeno or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Leftover hogao can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Use hogao as a topping for grilled meats, scrambled eggs, or even as a dip for tortilla chips.

Serving advice

Serve hogao as a condiment alongside traditional Colombian dishes such as arepas, empanadas, or grilled meats. It can also be used as a flavorful sauce for rice or pasta dishes.

Presentation advice

Transfer the hogao to a small serving bowl and garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro. Serve it alongside the main dish or as a dipping sauce.