Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe from Italy with Ground Beef and Fresh Vegetables

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Homemade spaghetti sauce is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This rich and flavorful sauce is made with a combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and lean ground beef, creating a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will love.

History

Spaghetti sauce, also known as marinara sauce, has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The recipe has evolved over time, with different regions of Italy adding their own unique twist to the classic dish. Today, homemade spaghetti sauce is enjoyed all over the world and is a favorite comfort food for many.

Ingredients

0.75 cup of dry mix
1 lb (454 g) of lean ground beef
3 cans of crushed tomatoes
1 cup of fresh mushrooms
1 cup of grated zucchini
1 cup of grated carrots
0.5 cup of chopped celery
1 chopped white onion

Dry mix

2 cups of dry minced onion
3 tbsp of oregano
2 tbsp of dried green pepper flakes
4 tsp of dried basil
1 tbsp of dry minced garlic
4 tsp of salt
4 tbsp of dry parsley
2 tsp of rosemary
2 tsp of thyme
2 tsp of marjoram

How to prepare

Combine all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef and then drain the excess fat.
Add the remaining ingredients to the skillet and simmer over low heat for two hours.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the sauce.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add a can of diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a thicker sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the sauce, try adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar.

- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.

- To make the sauce thicker, simmer it uncovered for a longer period of time.

- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the homemade spaghetti sauce over cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pair with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the sauce over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.

- Substitute any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or spinach.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. - Serve in a large pasta bowl or individual plates for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the homemade spaghetti sauce with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.

- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 25% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy (from cheese)

Summary

This homemade spaghetti sauce is a nutritious and delicious meal option, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying dish without compromising on flavor.

Summary

Homemade spaghetti sauce is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich and flavorful sauce made from fresh ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this comforting meal with loved ones and savor the taste of homemade goodness.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It all started when I was a young girl, just learning to cook in my mother's kitchen. I remember the smell of garlic and tomatoes simmering on the stove, filling the air with a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water.

My mother had always been a wonderful cook, and she had a particular knack for Italian cuisine. She learned the art of cooking from her own mother, who had immigrated to America from Italy many years ago. It was from my grandmother that my mother had learned the secret to making the most delicious homemade spaghetti sauce.

One day, as I watched my mother prepare a pot of spaghetti sauce, I asked her where she had learned the recipe. She smiled and told me that it had been passed down through generations of our family, all the way from our ancestors in Italy.

As my mother stirred the sauce, she began to tell me the story of how the recipe had come to be a cherished family secret. It all started with my great-grandmother, who had brought the recipe with her when she immigrated to America in search of a better life.

My great-grandmother had learned to make the sauce from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been perfected over the years, each generation adding their own special touch to make it truly unique.

As my mother finished cooking the sauce, she ladled it over a steaming plate of spaghetti and sprinkled it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The first bite was pure bliss - the rich, savory flavor of the sauce paired perfectly with the tender noodles, creating a dish that was truly unforgettable.

From that moment on, I knew that I had to learn how to make my mother's homemade spaghetti sauce. I watched her every time she made it, taking mental notes on the ingredients and techniques she used.

Over the years, I honed my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with different herbs and spices to create my own version of the beloved family recipe. I added a pinch of oregano for a hint of earthy flavor, a touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat, and a splash of red wine for depth and complexity.

As I perfected my own homemade spaghetti sauce, I shared it with friends and family, who raved about its delicious taste. They would often ask me for the recipe, but I would just smile and tell them that it was a family secret passed down through generations.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, stirring a pot of simmering spaghetti sauce, I can't help but feel a sense of pride. I have taken a recipe that has been in my family for generations and made it my own, adding my own special touch to create a dish that is truly unique.

As I take a taste of the sauce, I am transported back to my mother's kitchen, where the smell of garlic and tomatoes filled the air, creating a sense of warmth and comfort that can only come from a homemade meal made with love.

And as I serve up a steaming plate of spaghetti, topped with a generous ladle of my homemade sauce, I know that I am carrying on a tradition that has been passed down through generations of my family. I may have added my own special touch to the recipe, but the heart and soul of the dish remain the same - a labor of love that brings joy and comfort to all who taste it.