Spaghetti is a favorite dish across the world. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a special weekend meal. While the noodles themselves are a crucial part of the dish, what really brings spaghetti to life is the sauce that you pour over it.
There are countless variations of spaghetti sauce, with each recipe bringing its unique flavors and ingredients. In this article, we’re going to take a look at how to make a classic spaghetti sauce that can be customized to your liking.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent, around 5 minutes.
3. Mix in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 more minute.
4. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir until combined.
6. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Pour the sauce over your cooked spaghetti noodles.
9. Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish.
FAQs:
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Use around 8 to 10 medium-sized tomatoes, blanch them, remove the skin, and puree them in a blender. Adjust the quantity according to the thickness of the sauce you want.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting ground beef with plant-based protein such as tofu, textured vegetable protein, or lentils.
3. How long does the sauce last in the refrigerator?
The sauce will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. Let it cool down to room temperature before storing it. Store it in an airtight container or cover it properly with plastic wrap.
4. What can I add to the sauce to make it more flavorful?
You can add a variety of ingredients such as chopped carrots, celery, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add more flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
5. How can I make the sauce less acidic?
If you find the sauce too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to the sauce while it’s cooking. Sugar helps in neutralizing the acidity without affecting the overall flavor of the sauce.
6. Can I freeze the sauce for later?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce for later. Let it cool down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. The sauce will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, take it out and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stovetop.
