Chopped tomatoes with green bell pepper, celery, and onion

Diced tomatoes with green bell pepper, celery, and onion is a fresh and versatile mixture widely used in cooking to enhance the flavor of multiple dishes, from stews and soups to salads and sauces.

Food description: This combination consists of finely diced ripe tomatoes along with green bell pepper, celery, and onion, also cut into small pieces. Each of these ingredients contributes texture, color, and a balance of sweet, acidic, and slightly bitter flavors that enrich any recipe.

Origin: This mixture is common in various Hispanic American cuisines, with its use standing out in traditional dishes from Mexico, the Caribbean, and parts of Central and South America. This base of raw or lightly sautéed vegetables is fundamental for preparing sauces, sofritos, and side dishes typical of the region's home and popular cooking.

Properties: Tomatoes provide vitamins A and C, in addition to lycopene, a natural antioxidant. Green bell pepper adds vitamin C and fiber, as well as a fresh and slightly bitter flavor. Celery is known for its low calorie content, high water and fiber content, and for containing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Onion contributes with sulfur compounds that promote cardiovascular health and possess antimicrobial properties. Together, this mixture is nutritious, low in calories, and provides a base rich in natural flavor and health benefits.

Synonyms in Spanish from Hispanic America: This mixture can be referred to as sofrito in many regions, although sofrito can vary in its ingredients depending on the country. In some places, it is also simply known as basic vegetable mix or stew base. The ingredients separately may have different names: green bell pepper may be called aji verde or morrón verde, and celery is also known as apio nabo or simply apio.

This combination is ideal for those looking to add a fresh and tasty touch to their preparations, making any dish more aromatic and nutritious.