Thanks Burns! I was confused as to whether the Sofrito should be cooked or not and you answered that question. I saw recipes calling for Sherry, and I agree the flavor is great. I am planning on adding the olives to the final dish. By a "Whole Garlic" are you referring to an entire head or one clove? You didn't mention onions in the Sofrito but in the final dish is that correct?...!
Boil the meat separate, sautee the sofrito when the meat is close to done then shred the meat into the sofrito. I use a deep pan for the saute, that way I can just add the meat direct once it is done boiling.
Garlic--entire head. Garlic is your friend. If you feel lazy, buy the already minced garlic in olive oil in the jar at the store. It tastes fine. You can add the onions directly to the sofrito saute, that is what I do although adding it to the meat when you are simmering it in the pan wont ruin it, IMHO. But really, it needs onion. I like adding it to the sofrito so it can brown and start to turn translucent. Then I dont have to cook the meat as long. Have fun and develop your own style. Every family has their own way of doing it.
BTS