ElfyCreating your own marinara is nearly as speedy and boasts an incomparable flavor compared to store-bought options – plus, it relies on simple pantry staples. This recipe embodies the secrets to a vibrant, crimson sauce with an authentic taste, following the traditional style found in southern Italy.
Opt for a skillet instead of the typical saucepan for rapid water evaporation, resulting in perfectly cooked tomatoes and a rich, velvety consistency.
Classic Marinara Sauce
| Prep time | Cook Time | Rest Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 min | 30 min | - | 50 min |
Marinara sauce,
a versatile and flavorful tomato sauce, has a long-standing place in Italian culinary tradition. While its exact origins are subject to debate, it is believed to have originated in the southern regions of Italy, particularly Naples. The name “marinara” stems from the Italian word “marinaro,” meaning “mariner” or “sailor.”
According to legend, Neapolitan sailors in the 16th century created marinara sauce as a simple yet delicious sauce using tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, and herbs during their voyages. This sauce not only enhanced the taste of their meals but also helped preserve the freshness of ingredients during their long journeys.
The addition of garlic and onions in the sauce was thought to prevent illnesses caused by vitamin C deficiency.
Over time, marinara sauce gained popularity among the locals in Naples and gradually spread across Italy. Its delightful combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, herbs like basil and oregano, and olive oil made it a beloved sauce in Italian cuisine.
Marinara sauce is commonly used as a base for pasta dishes, pizza sauce, or a flavorful dip for bread.
Today, marinara sauce is enjoyed worldwide and has become a staple in Italian–American cuisine. Its vibrant flavor and adaptability have made it a favorite choice for various dishes.
Whether simmered briefly or slow-cooked for deeper flavors, marinara sauce continues to be cherished for its rich history and the authentic taste of Italian cooking.
Ingredients
Instructions
Bring a pot
of water to a boil. Score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in the boiling water for about 30 seconds.
Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool. Once cooled, peel off the skin and discard.
Cut the tomatoes in half and chop them into small pieces, or process them in a processor.
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add the chopped or processed tomatoes to the saucepan, along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt and black pepper.
Stir well to combine.Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves.Enjoy, Good Appetite!
