10 Zesty Hogao Recipes That Add Bright Delicious Heat

Colombian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, and hogao sauce is a true standout. This zesty sauce adds a vibrant kick to so many dishes, turning the ordinary into something special. Whether it’s a hearty chicken stir-fry or a fresh pasta salad, hogao brings a unique warmth that’s simply irresistible. I’m excited to share some of my favorite hogao recipes that really showcase this versatile gem. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these!

Classic Colombian Hogao

Hogao is a traditional Colombian sauce that embodies the vibrant flavors of the country’s diverse cuisine. This savory blend of onions, tomatoes, and spices is a staple accompaniment for many dishes, particularly in the Andean region. It adds a delightful depth and zest that enhances the flavors of meats, potatoes, and rice dishes. Making hogao is straightforward and quick, perfect for infusing your meals with authentic Colombian flair.

To create a classic Colombian hogao, you’ll need fresh ingredients and a little patience as you sauté them to perfection. The key to a great hogao is allowing the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, aromatic sauce that’s both comforting and invigorating. Once mastered, hogao can easily be adjusted with additional spices or ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile condiment for any occasion.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a medium skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. This will create the base for your hogao and help to sauté the onions effectively.
2. Sauté the Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and soft. This step is essential as it develops the sweetness and depth of flavor in the sauce.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and ground cumin. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma, and cumin contributes an earthy flavor that’s characteristic of Colombian cuisine.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow the tomatoes to break down. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the tomatoes are well integrated into the sauce.
5. Adjust the Flavor: Taste the hogao and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add chili powder at this stage. If using cilantro, stir it in just before serving for a fresh note.
6. Serve: Once the hogao is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a condiment alongside your favorite Colombian dishes, such as arepas, grilled meats, or rice.

Extra Tips

When making hogao, the quality of your tomatoes can greatly impact the flavor, so opt for ripe and juicy ones.

If you want to experiment, consider adding other ingredients like bell peppers or different herbs to personalize your hogao. This sauce can also be made in larger batches and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Hogao Chicken Stir-Fry

Hogao Chicken Stir-Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the spirit of Colombian cuisine right into your kitchen. This dish features tender chicken pieces sautéed to perfection, all while being enveloped in a zesty hogao sauce made from fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices. The combination of ingredients creates a delightful medley that pairs beautifully with rice or tortillas, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a delicious Hogao Chicken Stir-Fry that serves 4-6 people. The key to this dish lies in the hogao sauce, which not only adds depth of flavor but also enhances the overall experience. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this mouth-watering dish that’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges for serving
• Cooked rice or tortillas for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and prepare it for cooking.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Confirm the oil is hot before adding the chicken, as this will help sear the chicken and lock in the juices.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Allow them to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This adds the foundational flavors to the hogao sauce.
5. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing them to break down and release their juices. This creates the base of the hogao sauce.
6. Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well with the vegetable mixture. Allow everything to simmer together for another 5 minutes to marry the flavors.
7. Finish with Cilantro: Stir in the chopped cilantro right before serving. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
8. Serve: Plate the Hogao Chicken Stir-Fry over cooked rice or with warm tortillas. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Extra Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can also customize the stir-fry by adding other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition and color.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the hogao sauce. Enjoy your delicious Hogao Chicken Stir-Fry with family and friends!

Grilled Steak Topped With Hogao

Grilled steak topped with hogao is a delightful dish that brings together the robust flavors of perfectly grilled meat and the vibrant, zesty Colombian sauce known as hogao. This dish isn’t only hearty but also incredibly flavorful, making it an excellent choice for a family gathering or a weekend barbecue.

The hogao, made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices, adds a revitalizing and tangy contrast to the savory grilled steak, creating a culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds.

To prepare this dish, you’ll want to select quality cuts of steak, such as ribeye or sirloin, for a juicy and tender bite. The hogao sauce is simple to make and can be prepared while the steak is grilling, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

When served, the steak is generously topped with the vibrant hogao, making for an eye-catching and delicious presentation.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people)

• 2 pounds of ribeye or sirloin steak
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak: Season the ribeye or sirloin steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning into the meat to guarantee it’s evenly coated. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to allow for even cooking.
2. Make the Hogao Sauce: In a medium skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, and paprika into the skillet. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the mixture to simmer until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Finish the Hogao: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Set aside to keep warm.
5. Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned steaks on the grill and cook for approximately 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer a different doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 130°F for medium-rare.
6. Rest the Steak: Once the steaks are done cooking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a tender and juicy steak.
7. Serve: Slice the steak against the grain and plate it. Generously spoon the warm hogao sauce over the top of the sliced steak. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Extra Tips

When grilling steak, it’s essential to let it rest after cooking to prevent juices from running out when sliced.

Additionally, feel free to customize the hogao by adding ingredients such as bell peppers or jalapeños for added heat and flavor. Serve the dish alongside traditional sides like rice or arepas for a complete Colombian dining experience.

Roasted Vegetables With Hogao Drizzle

Roasted Vegetables with Hogao Drizzle is a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of seasonal vegetables with the zesty, herby flavors of hogao, a traditional Colombian sauce. This dish isn’t only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect side for any meal or a hearty vegetarian main.

The contrasting textures of roasted vegetables paired with the vibrant hogao elevate this dish to a whole new level, guaranteeing that every bite is a delicious experience. Making roasted vegetables is incredibly versatile; you can choose your favorite veggies or whatever is in season.

The hogao drizzle, made with fresh cilantro, green onions, tomatoes, and spices, adds a fresh and aromatic touch that ties the dish together beautifully. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe serves 4-6 people and is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of zucchini, diced
• 2 cups of bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), diced
• 2 cups of carrots, sliced
• 1 cup of red onion, chopped
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup of green onions, chopped
• 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of vinegar (white or apple cider)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven guarantees that the vegetables roast properly, caramelizing their natural sugars and enhancing their flavors.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, bell peppers, sliced carrots, and chopped red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Roast the Vegetables: Spread the seasoned vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned. Make sure to stir the vegetables halfway through for even cooking.
4. Make the Hogao: While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the hogao drizzle. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, green onions, tomatoes, minced garlic, cumin, and vinegar. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Once the vegetables are roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the hogao generously over the roasted vegetables and serve warm.

Extra Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding other seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes. You can also customize the hogao by adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.

If you’re preparing this dish ahead of time, roast the vegetables and make the hogao separately, then simply combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh. Enjoy your zesty creation!

Hogao Shrimp Tacos

If you’re looking for a flavorful and vibrant dish to impress your family or guests, search no further than Zesty Hogao Shrimp Tacos. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a traditional Colombian sauce called hogao, made from tomatoes, onions, and spices. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful balance of fresh and zesty flavors that will elevate your taco night to a whole new level.

With the addition of fresh toppings and warm tortillas, these tacos are perfect for any occasion.

To make these Zesty Hogao Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need to prepare the hogao sauce first, as it will be the star of the dish. The preparation is simple and quick, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Once the hogao is ready, sauté the shrimp in the delicious sauce and serve it all in warm tortillas topped with your favorite garnishes. Get ready to indulge in a burst of flavors with every bite!

Ingredients (serves 4-6 people):

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Hogao Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, sautéing until softened (about 5 minutes).

Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Incorporate the chopped tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes thick and saucy. This will be the hogao sauce that gives your tacos a vibrant flavor.

2. Cook the Shrimp: Once the hogao sauce is prepared, add the peeled and deveined shrimp directly into the skillet. Stir to coat the shrimp in the sauce and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if cooked for too long.

3. Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp is cooking, heat another skillet or a griddle over medium heat. Place the corn or flour tortillas on the skillet, warming each side for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until they’re pliable and slightly toasted.

This step enhances the flavor of the tortillas and makes them easier to fold.

4. Assemble the Tacos: To assemble your tacos, place a generous spoonful of the hogao shrimp mixture onto each warmed tortilla. Top with fresh cilantro and squeeze a lime wedge over the filling for an extra burst of freshness.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the assembled tacos on a serving platter, and serve them warm with additional lime wedges on the side for guests to enjoy.

Extra Tips:

When making Zesty Hogao Shrimp Tacos, feel free to customize your toppings based on your preferences! You can add avocado slices, diced radishes, or even a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the hogao sauce or serving with sliced jalapeños. Remember, fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor, so opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs whenever possible. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Breakfast Arepas With Hogao

Breakfast Arepas with Hogao is a delightful Colombian dish that brings together the comforting flavors of arepas and the zesty revitalizing qualities of hogao, a traditional Colombian sauce made with tomatoes and onions. Arepas are cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried, and they serve as a wonderful base for a variety of toppings.

In this recipe, the arepas are complemented by a vibrant hogao sauce, making it a hearty and flavorful breakfast option that can also be enjoyed at any time of the day. The combination of the warm, crispy arepas and the aromatic hogao creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

This dish isn’t only satisfying but also a great way to start your day. With the right ingredients and a bit of preparation, you can easily whip up this delicious meal that pays homage to Colombian culinary traditions.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 cups of arepa flour (masarepa)
• 2 cups of warm water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Arepa Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the arepa flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. Let the dough rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow it to hydrate fully.
2. Shape the Arepas: Divide the rested dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a disc about ½ inch thick. Make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Cook the Arepas: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, place the arepas in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove them from the skillet and let them cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Hogao Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
5. Serve: Split the cooked arepas in half (like a pocket) and spoon the hogao sauce generously onto the inside. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Extra Tips

To enhance the flavor of your hogao, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving, which will give it a revitalizing kick. You can also experiment with different toppings; avocado slices, cheese, or even eggs can be delicious additions to your arepas.

To prepare ahead, the arepas can be made in advance and reheated on a skillet or in the oven. Enjoy your Breakfast Arepas with Hogao as a filling breakfast or a delightful snack any time of day!

Hogao Pasta Salad

Hogao Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that beautifully combines the rich, aromatic essence of Colombian hogao sauce with the comforting texture of pasta. This salad not only serves as a delightful side dish but can also stand alone as a light meal. The hogao sauce, made primarily from tomatoes, onions, and spices, infuses the pasta with a burst of flavor, making every bite a rejuvenating experience. This dish is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or just a casual family dinner.

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need to cook the pasta al dente to guarantee it maintains its texture when mixed with the hogao sauce. Once the pasta is cooked, it will be tossed with the aromatic hogao and fresh vegetables, creating a visually appealing and palatable dish. You can also customize the salad by adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for an added twist, making it versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 12 ounces of pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
• 1 cup of hogao sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup of bell peppers, diced (mix of red, yellow, and green)
• 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup of cooked protein (grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl. If you’re adding protein, prepare it according to your preference (grilled, sautéed, or boiled) and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing will enhance the flavors of the salad and the hogao.
4. Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the chopped vegetables and protein (if using). Pour the hogao sauce and dressing over the pasta salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated.
5. Garnish and Chill: Finally, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the salad and give it one last gentle toss. Allow the pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Extra Tips: For the best flavor, prepare the hogao sauce a day ahead and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the spices to deepen and develop a more robust flavor. Additionally, feel free to customize the salad with seasonal vegetables or your favorite proteins to suit your taste. A sprinkle of feta cheese or avocado can also add a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Stuffed Peppers With Hogao

Stuffed Peppers With Hogao is a delightful dish that brings traditional Colombian flavors to your table. This recipe combines the vibrant and zesty notes of hogao sauce, a Colombian tomato and onion sauce, with the sweetness of bell peppers. The result is a colorful dish that not only looks appealing but also packs a punch of flavor that will impress your family and friends.

The hogao sauce infuses the rice and meat filling, creating a hearty meal that’s satisfying and delicious. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. It allows for creativity, as you can adjust the filling based on your preferences, whether you want to use ground beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian option.

The peppers can be topped with cheese for an extra layer of flavor, and the hogao sauce adds a fresh and tangy twist that ties everything together.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground chicken or a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup hogao sauce
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cool water, then set aside to dry.

2. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the ground beef (or your chosen protein) to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Mix in the Rice and Hogao: Stir in the cooked rice and hogao sauce into the skillet with the meat. Mix well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together for a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Stuff the Peppers: Carefully spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper until they’re generously filled. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filled peppers.

5. Bake: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If desired, you can add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to keep them moist while baking. Cover the dish with foil and Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Zesty Stuffed Peppers With Hogao!

Extra Tips

When preparing Stuffed Peppers With Hogao, feel free to add extra vegetables to the filling, such as diced zucchini or corn, for added nutrition and flavor.

Additionally, if you like a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling. This dish can be made ahead of time; simply prepare the stuffed peppers and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just adjust the baking time as needed if they’re coming straight from the fridge.

Hogao Vegetable Soup

Hogao Vegetable Soup is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the rich culinary traditions of Colombia. This hearty soup is enriched with hogao, a Colombian sautéed sauce made from tomatoes and onions, which adds depth and zest to the dish. The combination of fresh vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also provides a delightful variety of textures and flavors.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a delicious Hogao Vegetable Soup that serves 4-6 people. The process is straightforward and allows for flexibility with the seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this soup as it warms your soul and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Hogao Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This step builds the foundation of flavors for the soup.
2. Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in the diced tomatoes and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and create a rich sauce that’s essential for the soup’s flavor.
3. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the diced bell pepper, sliced carrots, diced zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, sautéing for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Pour in the Broth: Carefully add the vegetable broth to the pot, ensuring everything is well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering allows the vegetables to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Season the Soup: After the soup has simmered, add the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This seasoning step is vital for enhancing the overall flavor profile of the soup.
6. Serve and Garnish: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish that brightens the dish.

Extra Tips:

When making Hogao Vegetable Soup, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. For added protein, consider incorporating beans or lentils.

Additionally, letting the soup rest for a few hours or overnight can deepen the flavors, making it even tastier for leftovers. Enjoy the versatility of this dish by pairing it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Hogao Quesadillas

Hogao is a traditional Colombian sauce that brings a burst of flavor to any dish, and when paired with quesadillas, it creates an irresistible combination. These Zesty Hogao Quesadillas are perfect for a quick meal or a delightful snack, blending the rich, savory flavors of hogao with gooey cheese and crispy tortillas. The sauce, made primarily from tomatoes, green onions, and spices, enhances the quesadilla, making it a standout dish at any gathering or family dinner.

To prepare this dish, you’ll first want to make the hogao. Once the sauce is ready, the quesadillas come together quickly, making them an easy choice for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices. Serve them with a side of sour cream or guacamole for a delicious twist, and enjoy the zesty flavor that hogao brings to your table!

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Hogao: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, green onions, and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Quesadillas: Lay out four flour tortillas on a clean surface. On each tortilla, spread a generous amount of the hogao sauce, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Top with another tortilla, pressing down gently.
4. Cook the Quesadillas: In a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, add a little olive oil or cooking spray. Place the assembled quesadillas in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat for the remaining quesadillas.
5. Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the quesadillas from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Cut them into wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with sour cream or guacamole if desired.

Extra Tips

When preparing Zesty Hogao Quesadillas, feel free to customize the filling by adding cooked chicken, beans, or vegetables for extra protein and flavor. For a spicier kick, include jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the hogao.

Additionally, if you prefer a crispier quesadilla, try using a cast-iron skillet and press down slightly while cooking. Enjoy your cooking experience and share these delicious quesadillas with friends and family!