The Ultimate Pasta Sauce: A Culinary Masterpiece
When it comes to creating the perfect pasta sauce, one must strike a delicate balance between sweetness, spiciness, and acidity, and this Ultimate Pasta Sauce does just that. This sauce is a remarkable blend of flavors that can elevate any dish it accompanies, whether it be pasta, rice, or even a delightful pizza. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this exceptional sauce that guarantees satisfaction with every bite.
Recipe Details
| Name | Pasta Sauce |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Description | This is the best pasta sauce you will ever have. It is not too sweet, not too spicy, not too acidic; it’s just darn good! |
| Recipe Category | Sauces |
| Keywords | Rice, Vegetable, European, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Kid Friendly, Stove Top, < 4 Hours, Inexpensive |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 175.3 kcal |
| Fat Content | 10.8 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1.5 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0.1 mg |
| Sodium Content | 900.4 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 19.1 g |
| Fiber Content | 4.5 g |
| Sugar Content | 11.9 g |
| Protein Content | 4 g |
| Servings | N/A |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Kosher Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sea Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | ¾ cup |
| Onion | 1 large |
| Chicken Broth | 1 cup |
| Whole Tomatoes | 1 can (28 oz) |
| Tomato Paste | ½ cup |
| Cracked Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Pepper Flakes | ½ teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Parsley | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
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Prepare the Garlic: Begin by placing the garlic cloves on your cutting board. Using the flat side of a chef’s knife, smash the garlic into a paste while incorporating the kosher salt. This process not only enhances the flavor but also helps to mellow the sharpness of the garlic.
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Heat the Olive Oil: In a large saucepan, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to become fragrant but be careful not to let it smoke.
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Cook the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and the garlic paste to the hot oil. Sauté the mixture for approximately 8 minutes or until the onions turn a lovely golden brown, releasing their natural sweetness.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits that have adhered to the bottom of the pan. This step is crucial as it incorporates all the wonderful flavors into your sauce.
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Add the Tomatoes: Take the whole tomatoes from the can and crush them using your hands before adding them to the pan. Although it may feel a bit messy, this technique adds a delightful texture to the sauce that you simply cannot achieve with pre-chopped tomatoes.
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Incorporate Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste along with the cracked black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar, ensuring everything is well combined. The sugar will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a harmonious flavor profile.
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Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the sauce to a soft boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan, allowing the sauce to simmer gently.
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Simmer for Flavor: Let the sauce simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Finish with Herbs: About 5 minutes before serving, stir in the dried parsley and dried basil. This addition brightens the sauce and adds a fresh aroma that is irresistible.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your ultimate pasta sauce is now ready to be served! Whether you pour it over your favorite pasta, use it as a base for a delicious pizza, or enjoy it alongside rice, this sauce will undoubtedly impress family and friends alike.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Sauce
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and broth, as they significantly impact the overall flavor of your sauce.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning according to your preferences; add more red pepper flakes for heat or additional sugar for sweetness.
- Make It Ahead: This sauce stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be frozen for longer storage, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Pasta Sauce is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that can bring joy to your dining experience. With its rich taste and inviting aroma, it is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, one that you can confidently share with friends and family. Enjoy the delightful journey of cooking and savor the fruits of your labor with every delicious bite!
