When it comes to store bought spaghetti sauce, sometimes you may find that it lacks the depth of flavor you desire. The good news is that there are plenty of ingredients you can add to elevate your store bought sauce and make it taste like a homemade masterpiece. Whether you want to enhance the sweetness, add some heat, or simply make it more robust, here are some ingredients you can consider adding:
Add Some Fresh Herbs:
One of the easiest ways to enhance the flavor of your store bought spaghetti sauce is by adding fresh herbs. Consider adding some chopped basil leaves for a burst of freshness or some oregano for an earthy note. These herbs will not only add a pop of color but also infuse your sauce with a homemade aroma.
Boost the Flavor with Garlic:
No Italian-inspired dish is complete without garlic! For an extra punch of flavor, finely chop some fresh garlic cloves and sauté them in olive oil before adding your store bought sauce. The combination of garlic and tomato is a match made in culinary heaven.
Add Some Heat:
If you like your spaghetti sauce with a kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. These spicy additions will give your sauce an extra layer of complexity and heat that will awaken your taste buds.
Sautéed Onions and Bell Peppers:
To add some sweetness and texture to your store bought spaghetti sauce, sauté some diced onions and bell peppers in olive oil until they are caramelized. This will bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to your sauce.
Simmer with Meat:
If you’re looking to make your spaghetti sauce heartier, consider simmering it with ground beef or Italian sausage. Brown the meat in a separate pan, then drain off any excess fat before adding it to the sauce. This will not only add flavor but also give your sauce a meaty richness.
Experiment with Wine:
For a touch of sophistication, consider deglazing your pan with red wine before adding your store bought spaghetti sauce. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich and complex flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes in the sauce.
Add Some Sweetness:
If you find that your store bought spaghetti sauce is too acidic, you can balance it out by adding a touch of sweetness. A teaspoon or two of sugar or honey can do wonders in mellowing out the acidity and creating a more well-rounded flavor profile.
Finish with Freshly Grated Cheese:
To take your spaghetti sauce to the next level, don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese on top before serving. The salty and nutty flavors of the cheese will complement the flavors in your sauce and add a luxurious touch.
Conclusion
With just a few simple additions, you can transform your store bought spaghetti sauce into a gourmet creation that tastes like it was simmered for hours. Whether you choose to add fresh herbs, spice it up with some heat, or balance out the acidity with sweetness, these ingredients will elevate your sauce and impress even the most discerning palates.