Cómo preparar betún
Betún, a traditional Colombian sauce, is a flavorful and versatile ingredient that can elevate the taste of various dishes. Made from a combination of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and achiote paste, betún is often used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing betún, ensuring that you can enjoy this delicious Colombian flavor in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To prepare betún, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup of ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of achiote paste
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of oregano
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cups of water or vegetable broth
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the achiote paste, salt, ground cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should start to soften and release their juices.
5. Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are completely broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the sauce to a blender and process it in batches.
7. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a spicier betún, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
8. Your betún is now ready to be used in your favorite Colombian recipes or as a delicious topping for meats, fish, or vegetables.
Conclusion
Preparing betún is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of Colombian cuisine. By following these easy steps, you can create a flavorful sauce that will enhance the taste of your dishes. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this delightful Colombian staple. ¡Buena suerte!
