Best Easy Authentic Italian Sunday Gravy Recipe
Sunday Gravy, also known as Sunday sauce, is a classic Italian dish that has been passed down through generations. This hearty and flavorful tomato-based sauce is traditionally made with a variety of meats and simmered for hours to develop its rich taste. If you’re looking for an easy and authentic Italian Sunday Gravy recipe, you’re in luck! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound Italian sausage, cut into chunks
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1 pound pork ribs
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the Italian sausage, beef short ribs, and pork ribs. Brown the meats on all sides.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the red wine, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir again.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. After the cooking time, remove the meats from the sauce and shred them. Return the shredded meat to the pot.
7. Adjust the seasoning if needed and let the sauce simmer for another 30 minutes.
FAQs:
1. Can I use different meats in the Sunday Gravy?
Yes, you can use a variety of meats such as pork shoulder, meatballs, or even a whole chicken. The choice is yours!
2. Can I make Sunday Gravy in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors tend to develop even more when the sauce is made ahead of time.
3. Can I freeze Sunday Gravy?
Yes, Sunday Gravy freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer.
4. Can I substitute the red wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or water.
5. Can I make Sunday Gravy vegetarian?
Certainly! You can skip the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
6. How long should I simmer the sauce?
To achieve the best flavors, it’s recommended to simmer the sauce for at least 3 hours. However, you can simmer it longer if desired.
7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use fresh basil and oregano if available. Just double the amount as dried herbs tend to be more concentrated.
8. Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste.
9. Can I serve Sunday Gravy with any type of pasta?
Traditionally, Sunday Gravy is served with a thick pasta like rigatoni or ziti. However, you can use any pasta you prefer.
10. Can I add vegetables to the Sunday Gravy?
Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
11. How long can I store Sunday Gravy in the refrigerator?
You can store Sunday Gravy in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a container.