Marinara Sauce For Spaghetti And Meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs is one of the most popular Italian dishes in the United States. The dish is simple yet flavorful, and it's perfect for any occasion. However, what makes this dish so delicious is the marinara sauce that is used to coat the spaghetti and meatballs. Marinara sauce is a classic Italian sauce that is made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and various herbs and spices. In this article, we will discuss the history of marinara sauce, its ingredients, and how to make it from scratch.
The History of Marinara Sauce
The history of marinara sauce dates back to the 16th century when the Spanish introduced the tomato to Italy. The first recipe for marinara sauce was recorded in the late 17th century in Naples, Italy. The sauce was originally made with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Over time, the recipe evolved, and other ingredients such as onions, oregano, and basil were added to enhance the flavor. Today, marinara sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine and is enjoyed all over the world.
The Ingredients
Marinara sauce is a simple sauce that is made with just a few ingredients. Here are the ingredients that you will need:
- 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Marinara Sauce
Making marinara sauce is easy and can be done in less than an hour. Here are the steps to follow:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan and stir well.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Puree the sauce in a blender or food processor until it is smooth.
- Return the pureed sauce to the saucepan and heat it over low heat until it is warmed through.
- Serve the marinara sauce over spaghetti and meatballs.
Tips for Making the Best Marinara Sauce
Here are some tips to help you make the best marinara sauce:
- Use good quality canned tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are a popular choice.
- Don't skip the sugar. It helps to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Use fresh herbs if possible. They will give the sauce a brighter flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes. This will develop the flavor and thicken the sauce.
Conclusion
Marinara sauce is a classic Italian sauce that is perfect for spaghetti and meatballs. It is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. By following the tips in this article, you can make a delicious marinara sauce that will impress your friends and family. So next time you are in the mood for spaghetti and meatballs, try making your own marinara sauce from scratch. Your taste buds will thank you!