Hogao is a very important condiment in colombian cooking. It is a savory mix of tomatoes, onions, garlic, cilantro, and other ingredients that are sauted until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Hogao is very adaptable, so experiment and make it your own. The sazn goya is optional-it adds flavor (msg) and some golden color. You could substitute chicken bouillon and a pinch of turmeric and cumin. Hogao is served as a condiment alongside many dishes, such as bandeja paisa and arepas, but it's also used as a base preparation or seasoning, like a sofrito. To make delicious colombian red beans, for example, you start with a basic hogao.
