- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes are key to creating a rich and flavorful base for your chunky marinara sauce.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the sauce.
- Onion: Finely chopped onions soften beautifully in the sauce, making it more appealing.
- Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil is essential for sautéing vegetables to perfection. Use extra virgin for maximum flavor.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil provides a fresh herbal note that complements the tomatoes well.
- Salt: Add sea salt or kosher salt for better taste and texture.
- Black Pepper: Ground black pepper adds a bit of heat and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Red Wine (Optional): A splash of red wine can help deepen the sauce's flavors. Opt for a lighter variety as it cooks down quickly.
- Herbs (Additional): Include other herbs like oregano or thyme if desired, which can vary based on local availability and personal preference.
- Ground Beef or Sausage (For Added Chunkiness): These ingredients add a hearty texture to the sauce. Ensure they are browned before adding to the sauce for maximum flavor.
- Vegetable Stock: Use low-sodium vegetable stock as needed to keep the sauce rich and velvety.
Incorporating these SEO-friendly keywords can help optimize your recipe content for search engines:
- Chunky Marinara Sauce Pasta
- Fresh Tomatoes
- Garlic
- Onions
- Olive Oil
- Basil Leaves
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Red Wine
- Herbs
- Ground Beef or Sausage
- Vegetable Stock
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Steps
### Chunky Marinara Sauce Pasta Recipe
#### Introduction:
Enjoy the rich flavors of homemade chunky marinara sauce paired with al dente pasta. This recipe is perfect for a comforting, hearty meal that's easy to prepare at home. By following these detailed steps and SEO-friendly tips, you can create a delicious dish that’s sure to impress your family or friends.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 lbs (900g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 4 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh or canned tomato puree
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs of fresh basil, chopped
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
#### Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Wooden spoon
#### Steps:
**Step 1: Prepare the Base**
Start by finely chopping one large onion and mincing three garlic cloves. This will serve as the base of your marinara sauce, adding depth and flavor.
**Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat**
In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then, add 2 lbs (900g) of ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot.
**Step 3: Brown the Meat**
Cook the meat mixture over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This process should take about 15-20 minutes until the meat is fully browned and the juices have mostly evaporated.
**Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings**
Pour in 2 cups of red wine (optional), 4 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes, and 2 cups of tomato puree. Stir to combine well. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance any acidity.
**Step 5: Simmer the Sauce**
Place three bay leaves in the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This long cooking process helps the flavors meld together beautifully. You can adjust the consistency by blending part of the sauce with an immersion blender or a regular blender if you prefer a chunkier texture.
**Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
Once the sauce is ready, remove the bay leaves. Stir in some chopped fresh basil for added freshness. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
**Step 7: Cook Your Pasta**
While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and toss with the chunky marinara sauce.
**Step 8: Plate and Enjoy!**
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish is perfect served alongside garlic bread or a crisp salad.
#### SEO Tips:
- Use keywords like "chunky marinara," "homemade pasta sauce," and "Italian cuisine" throughout your recipe.
- Include alt text in images if you plan to add visuals, such as "Chunky Marinara Sauce Pasta Recipe."
- Mention the benefits of using fresh ingredients for better flavor and nutrition.
By following these steps, you can create a hearty, flavorful chunky marinara sauce pasta that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!