Ingredients For Spaghetti Sauce From Scratch
If you're looking to make a delicious spaghetti sauce from scratch, then you've come to the right place. Making your own sauce is not only a great way to ensure that you're using fresh, high-quality ingredients, but it's also a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we'll explore the key ingredients you'll need to make a mouthwatering spaghetti sauce from scratch.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the star ingredient in any spaghetti sauce. You can use fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes, depending on your preference. If you're using fresh tomatoes, you'll need to blanch them first to remove the skin. To do this, simply score the bottom of each tomato with a sharp knife, and then place them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove the tomatoes from the water and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. Once they're cool enough to handle, the skin should come off easily.
If you're using canned tomatoes, look for whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes. Avoid using diced tomatoes, as they tend to be too watery for spaghetti sauce.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are essential for adding flavor to your spaghetti sauce. Start by finely chopping one onion and two cloves of garlic. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, and then add the onions and garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices are what really give your spaghetti sauce its flavor. Here are some of the most commonly used herbs and spices:
- Basil
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt
- Black pepper
You can use any combination of these herbs and spices, depending on your personal taste. Start by adding a teaspoon of each herb and spice, and then adjust to taste.
Red Wine
Adding red wine to your spaghetti sauce is optional, but it can add a rich, complex flavor to the sauce. Use a dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Add about 1/2 cup of wine to the saucepan after cooking the onions and garlic, and then let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol has evaporated.
Sugar
Adding a pinch of sugar to your spaghetti sauce can help balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Start by adding a teaspoon of sugar, and then adjust to taste.
Conclusion
Making spaghetti sauce from scratch is a great way to elevate your cooking skills and impress your friends and family. With the right ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a delicious, homemade sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, grab your apron and get cooking!
