DIY Delicious Spaghetti Sauce: From Store-Bought to Homemade
When it comes to making spaghetti sauce, many of us turn to store-bought options for convenience. But for true flavor and nutritional balance, it’s worth the effort to make it from scratch. In this guide, we’ll explore the best methods and ingredients for creating your own homemade spaghetti sauce, as well as discuss the merits of using off-the-shelf options in moderation.
Why Off-the-Shelf Spaghetti Sauce Isn’t Always Ideal
While store-bought spaghetti sauce can be convenient, it often comes with a downside due to the added sugars and preservatives. These additives can affect the taste and nutrition of your dish. While it might seem like a hassle to make your sauce from scratch, the results can be far superior – especially when you’re done cooking, it tastes 100 times better!
To get started, consider sautéing onions, celery, garlic, and peppers. These will add wonderful aromatics to your sauce. Next, brown your ground beef and Italian sausage, which will contribute to the meaty flavor. Don’t forget to add a dash of wine to the pan to enhance the flavors and bring out the true essence of the meat. Then, simply simmer everything together to let the flavors meld.
Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Spaghetti Sauce
If you’re not a fan of the traditional tomato-based sauce, there’s no reason to limit yourself. Pesto sauce is a great alternative and can make a delicious and nutritious option. When made from scratch, even a jarred version of pesto sauce can be quite tasty. It’s a versatile addition that can elevate any pasta dish.
Moreover, don’t assume that spaghetti is the only pasta for your sauce. Trenette or linguine can be used instead, as they provide a more interesting texture. If you prefer shorter pasta shapes, consider using penne, fusilli, or farfalle, which can add a delightful texture to your dish.
Effective Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Incorporating a combination of Prego Chunky Leafy Vegetables 23 oz and Contadina or Hunt’s Crushed Tomatoes, along with Hunt’s Basil Oregano and Garlic Diced Tomatoes, and a medium can of tomato paste, can create an exquisite homemade sauce. Adding green leafy vegetables to the sauce can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with incorporating vegetables into their diet, especially children. For instance, I have two daughters aged 5 and 8 years old, and using this sauce helps them consume vegetables without even realizing it.
Simmering the sauce for at least a couple of hours is crucial. By starting the process early in the day, you can achieve a delicious result by the time dinner is ready. I typically begin simmering my sauce at 7:00 am, and by the time I return home from church services around 12:30 pm, the sauce has been simmering for up to 6 hours. The meatballs and sweet Italian sausage are simmered for 4 hours, making the sauce tender and full of flavor. The sweetness and thickness of the sauce will make you and your family (especially your children) want to devour it.
Ingredients and Best Practices for Homemade Sauce
When making a homemade spaghetti sauce, it’s important to use only high-quality ingredients. Opt for tomatoes from Italy, which are naturally sweet and do not contain added sugar. Add Mexican oregano from Chihuahua, garlic powder, and salt for flavor. If you choose to use regular Italian oregano, prepare the sauce a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
Remember, the key to a great homemade spaghetti sauce is patience and attention to detail. Simmering your sauce over low heat can significantly enhance its taste and texture. By investing time in your sauce, you’ll create a dish that will delight all your senses and stand proudly next to your perfectly prepared pasta.