Tomato Basil Genovese Sauce Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Immersion blender or food processor

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Using an immersion blender or food processor, blend the sauce until smooth.
8. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Serve the sauce immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Canned tomatoes can be used instead of fresh tomatoes.
- Pecorino Romano cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Fresh oregano or thyme can be used instead of basil.

Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce for a meaty version.
- Add sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers for a vegetable-packed version.
- Add a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Be sure to peel the tomatoes before chopping them to remove the tough skin.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.

Storage instructions:
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce over pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a side salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it up.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the sauce to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Genovese sauce originated in the Liguria region of Italy, where it is traditionally served with trofie pasta.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, tangy, and slightly spicy.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce hot or cold, depending on your preference.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Herby, Tangy, Robust, Aromatic