Have you ever wondered what exactly is in that iconic Spaghetti O sauce? This beloved canned pasta dish has been a staple in many households for generations, but what goes into creating that signature tomato sauce?
The Ingredients
The official ingredients for Spaghetti O sauce are as follows: tomato puree (water, tomato paste), high fructose corn syrup, water, salt, vegetable oil (corn, cottonseed and/or canola), citric acid, lower sodium natural sea salt, potassium chloride, onion powder, garlic powder, and natural flavoring.
Tomato Puree
The base of the sauce is made up of tomato puree which is essentially just tomatoes that have been cooked down and blended until smooth. The tomato puree used in Spaghetti O sauce comes from concentrated tomato paste mixed with water.
Sweetener
The second ingredient on the list is high fructose corn syrup. This ingredient adds a sweet note to the sauce which balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Oil
Vegetable oil is also used in the recipe. This oil blend helps to create a smooth texture and gives the sauce a richer mouthfeel.
Acidifier
Citric acid is an acidifier that helps to balance out the sweetness of the corn syrup while also adding a tangy taste to the overall flavor profile.
Salt and Other Seasonings
Lower sodium natural sea salt and potassium chloride are used to enhance the overall flavor while also reducing sodium levels. Onion powder and garlic powder add depth to the flavor profile while natural flavoring enhances the taste without any artificial additives.
How It’s Made
To make Spaghetti O sauce, all of these ingredients are mixed together in large vats and cooked until they reach a perfectly balanced consistency. The resulting sauce is then added to cans along with precooked spaghetti in the shape of small circles, or “O’s,” and sealed for freshness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Spaghetti O sauce is made up of a combination of tomato puree, high fructose corn syrup, vegetable oil, citric acid, lower sodium natural sea salt, potassium chloride, onion powder, garlic powder and natural flavoring. These ingredients work together to create the signature flavor that has been enjoyed by generations.
So next time you enjoy a bowl of Spaghetti O’s take a moment to appreciate the perfectly balanced sauce that makes this dish so beloved.