Spaghetti sauce, also known as marinara sauce, is a key component of a delicious plate of pasta. It’s a versatile sauce that can be made with various ingredients to suit your taste buds. In this article, we will explore some of the best ingredients to put in spaghetti sauce to make it truly mouthwatering.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the heart and soul of any good spaghetti sauce.
They provide the base and richness to the sauce. While you can use canned tomatoes, nothing beats the flavor of fresh ripe tomatoes. You can either use whole tomatoes and crush them yourself or opt for canned crushed tomatoes for convenience.
2. Onions
Onions are another essential ingredient in spaghetti sauce.
They add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce. You can finely chop or dice the onions and sauté them in olive oil until they become translucent before adding other ingredients.
3. Garlic
Garlic is a must-have ingredient for anyone who loves Italian cuisine.
Its aromatic flavor brings a delightful kick to spaghetti sauce. Finely mince the garlic cloves and sauté them with onions for a delicious base flavor.
4. Herbs and Spices
To enhance the taste of your spaghetti sauce, it’s important to add a combination of herbs and spices:
- Basil: Fresh or dried basil adds a fragrant aroma and earthy taste.
- Oregano: Oregano gives an authentic Italian flavor to your sauce.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and color to the sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Salt and Pepper: Season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Meat
If you prefer a heartier spaghetti sauce, adding meat is a great option. Here are some popular choices:
- Ground Beef: Brown ground beef before adding it to the sauce for a rich and meaty flavor.
- Italian Sausage: Remove the casings and cook Italian sausage for a savory addition.
- Meatballs: Homemade or store-bought meatballs can be a delicious addition to your spaghetti sauce.
6. Wine
Wine, particularly red wine, can add depth and complexity to your spaghetti sauce.
It helps enhance the flavors of other ingredients. Simply add a splash of wine while simmering the sauce to elevate its taste.
7. Sugar
A touch of sugar can balance the acidity of tomatoes in your sauce.
It helps mellow out any bitterness and creates a more well-rounded flavor. Add sugar gradually, tasting as you go, until you achieve the desired level of sweetness.
8. Cheese
No plate of spaghetti is complete without some grated cheese on top!
Parmesan or pecorino Romano cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor that complements the sauce perfectly. Sprinkle it generously over your cooked pasta before pouring on the sauce.
Conclusion
Creating a delicious spaghetti sauce is an art that allows you to experiment with different ingredients. By combining tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs, spices, meat, wine, sugar, and cheese, you can create a flavorful sauce that will impress your family and friends. So grab your apron and get cooking!