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Homemade Marinara Sauce: A Classic Italian Recipe
This homemade marinara sauce is a classic Italian staple that can elevate your pasta dishes, pizzas, and more. Made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, this sauce is simple yet packed with flavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making this delicious marinara sauce from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or 6-8 fresh Roma tomatoes, peeled and crushed)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 3-4 fresh tomatoes, diced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Add the Tomatoes:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the tomato paste until it is well incorporated.
- Season the Sauce:
- Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Stir in the fresh basil and parsley about 5 minutes before the sauce is done cooking. This will add a burst of fresh flavor to the sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or sugar depending on your taste preferences.
- Serve:
- Use the marinara sauce immediately with your favorite pasta, as a pizza sauce, or as a dipping sauce. You can also let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Additional Tips:
- Using Fresh Tomatoes:
- If you prefer using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. Peel the skins off, then crush and dice them before adding to the sauce.
- Smooth Sauce:
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency. This is especially helpful if you have picky eaters who prefer a less chunky sauce.
- Adding Depth:
- For added depth of flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce when you add the tomatoes. Let it cook for a few minutes to reduce slightly before proceeding with the recipe.
- Storing and Freezing:
- Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Health Benefits:
- Tomatoes:
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
- Garlic:
- Garlic has potent medicinal properties and can help boost the immune system, reduce blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.
- Olive Oil:
- Olive oil is a healthy fat that is high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health.
By following this guide, you can create a delicious and authentic homemade marinara sauce that will enhance any dish. This versatile sauce is a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire, offering rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.
