Recaito

This is a seasoning used in some countries of Latin America which gives the basic flavor to many Dominican dishes. It is a combination of olives, capers, onions, peppers (preferably Cubanelle), cilantro, salt and pepper, vinegar, and garlic chopped in the food processor. This recipe makes quite a bit. You may refrigerate or freeze a large amount. You can get recaíto in most supermarkets with ethnic aisles or in Latin food stores. Goya contains Monosodium Glutamate, while Bohío doesn’t. If you can find it refrigerated or frozen, that is preferable.

• 3-4  onions
• 5 peppers (Cubanelle)
• 2 cloves garlic
  
• 6 ajíes gustosos – sweet peppers (these are very small sweet peppers that are used to flavor foods. If you can’t find these just use a little more of the Cubanelles)
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 organic chicken bouillons or alternative*
  
• ¼ cup oregano (Caribbean oregano is a completely different plant than the Italian or American oregano. It is much stronger. Most Supermarkets now carry it in the ethnic aisle.
• 1 tsp allspice
• 2 tbsp bija (achiote, annatto)
• 2 tbsp olives and capers
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ cup vinegar (preferably, yellow apple cider vinegar)
• 1 cup water (only if necessary)
• A little bit of olive oil (optional)
• Pepper to taste