Authentic Italian Salsa de Puttana Recipe | Classic Spaghetti Sauce

Salsa de Puttana

Authentic Italian Salsa de Puttana Recipe | Classic Spaghetti Sauce
Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Salsa de Puttana
Salsa de Puttana

Salsa de Puttana, also known as "Whore's Sauce," is a traditional Italian pasta sauce that is full of bold and savory flavors. This sauce is perfect for those who enjoy a dish with a bit of a kick and a lot of depth in flavor.

History

Salsa de Puttana has a long history in Italian cuisine, with its origins dating back to the early 20th century. The sauce was originally created by Italian prostitutes who needed a quick and easy dish to prepare for their clients. Over time, the recipe evolved and became a popular choice in many Italian households.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a large skillet, sauté garlic, celery, and green pepper in oil until the vegetables are tender, but not browned.
  2. Add tomatoes, anchovies, capers, and basil.
  3. Season with crushed red pepper to taste.
  4. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes.
  5. Cook spaghetti according to the package directions.
  6. Toss the sauce with spaghetti.
  7. Note: If anchovies are omitted, add 0.5 tbsp of salt.

Variations

  • For a vegetarian version of Salsa de Puttana, omit the anchovies and add extra olives and capers for a briny and savory flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavors of Salsa de Puttana, be sure to sauté the garlic, celery, and green pepper until they are tender but not browned. This will help to release the natural oils and flavors of the vegetables, creating a rich and aromatic base for the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Salsa de Puttana with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the sauce uncovered allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, creating a rich and robust sauce that pairs perfectly with the spaghetti.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have anchovies on hand, you can substitute them with a dash of fish sauce for a similar umami flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Salsa de Puttana can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the sauce on the stove before tossing it with freshly cooked spaghetti.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Salsa de Puttana with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Salsa de Puttana with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wine for a classic Italian dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Salsa de Puttana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

Contains fish (anchovies) and gluten (spaghetti)

Summary

Salsa de Puttana is a flavorful pasta dish that is relatively low in calories and high in essential nutrients. It is a great option for those looking for a satisfying meal that is both delicious and nutritious.

Summary

Salsa de Puttana is a classic Italian pasta sauce that is full of bold and savory flavors. With a rich history and a delicious taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Salsa de Puttana. It was a warm summer day in the bustling streets of Rome, Italy. I was wandering through the local market, my senses overwhelmed by the sights and smells of fresh produce and exotic spices. As I meandered through the crowded stalls, a kind old woman beckoned me over with a twinkle in her eye.

"Signora, would you like to try some of my special salsa?" she asked, holding out a small wooden spoon filled with a vibrant red sauce.

Intrigued, I accepted the spoon and took a tentative taste. The flavors exploded in my mouth - tangy tomatoes, fiery peppers, fragrant herbs. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I immediately knew that I had to learn the secret behind this delicious salsa.

The old woman smiled knowingly as she saw the look of wonder on my face. "Ah, you like it, yes?" she said, her voice tinged with a hint of mischief. "I will teach you how to make it, but only if you promise to keep the recipe a secret."

I eagerly agreed, and she beckoned me over to her humble stall. As she began to gather the ingredients, she regaled me with stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The salsa, she explained, was traditionally made by the women of her village to accompany their meals, adding a burst of flavor to even the simplest of dishes.

I watched intently as she chopped and diced, stirred and simmered, each movement precise and practiced. She explained the importance of using only the freshest ingredients, of balancing the flavors just so, of cooking with love and intention. As the salsa bubbled and simmered on the stove, the tantalizing aroma filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Finally, the salsa was ready. The old woman scooped it into a small jar and handed it to me with a smile. "Now, you go home and make this for your family. They will love it, I promise."

And love it they did. From that day on, Salsa de Puttana became a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of that fateful encounter in the streets of Rome. I shared the recipe with my own daughters and granddaughters, passing on the tradition just as the old woman had done for me.

Over the years, I have made countless batches of Salsa de Puttana, each one a labor of love and a tribute to the woman who taught me its secrets. It has become a cherished family recipe, a symbol of our shared heritage and culinary legacy.

As I stand in my kitchen now, stirring a pot of simmering salsa, I can't help but smile as I think back to that fateful day in Rome. The taste of the salsa brings me back to the bustling market, the kind old woman, the shared moment of connection and culinary discovery. And as I take a spoonful of the rich, spicy sauce, I am filled with gratitude for the traditions that bind us together, across time and space.

Categories

| Anchovy Recipes | Black Olive Recipes | Caper Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Celery Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Italian Recipes | Sauce Recipes | Spaghetti Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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