Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan.
5. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the tomato paste and water to the saucepan and stir well.
8. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
- Makes about 4 cups of sauce
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 70 per 1/2 cup serving
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 340mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned
- Can use fresh herbs instead of dried
- Can use vegetable broth instead of water
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meaty sauce
- Add sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian option
- Add a splash of red wine for added depth of flavor
Tips and tricks:
- Use a wooden spoon to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan
- Let the sauce cool slightly before serving to prevent burns
- Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce over pasta or use as a dipping sauce for breadsticks
Garnishes:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil
Pairings:
- Pasta
- Breadsticks
- Garlic bread
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out
- If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a longer period of time to thicken
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the sauce to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness
Food history:
- Neapolitan sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce that originated in Naples, Italy
Flavor profiles:
- Rich tomato flavor with hints of oregano, basil, and garlic
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce over pasta or use as a dipping sauce for breadsticks
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Region: Italian