Here’s a simple and delicious homemade spaghetti sauce recipe:
### Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
– 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra depth)
– 1 bay leaf (optional)
– 1/2 cup water or red wine (optional, depending on desired consistency)
### Instructions:
1. **Sauté the Aromatics:**
– Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute, until fragrant.
2. **Add Tomatoes:**
– Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
– Mix until everything is well combined.
3. **Season the Sauce:**
– Add sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf (if using). Stir well.
4. **Simmer:**
– Add water or wine to thin the sauce slightly if needed.
– Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Allow the sauce to cook for at least 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors develop.
5. **Taste and Adjust:**
– Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
6. **Serve:**
– Remove the bay leaf (if used) before serving.
– Serve the sauce over your favorite spaghetti or pasta.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.
### Optional Add-ins:
– **Meat**: Brown ground beef, pork, or Italian sausage, and add to the sauce while it simmers for a meat sauce.
– **Vegetables**: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or grated carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti sauce!