Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
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 cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chopped basil leaves and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 3 cups of sauce
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes.
- You can use dried basil instead of fresh basil.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce for a meaty version.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a chunky sauce.
- Add a splash of red wine for a richer flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful not to burn the garlic or red pepper flakes as they can become bitter.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- You can make this sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Storage instructions:
- Store the 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 medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce over pasta, meatballs, or grilled chicken.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it up.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the sauce to a safe temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.
Food history:
- Tomato sauce has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, tangy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce hot over your favorite pasta or meat dish.
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Region: Italian