Margie's Cuban Sofrito (Sauce)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• 3/4 cup canned tomato sauce