Basic Spaghetti Sauce

Step 1

1 In a medium pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat

Step 2

2 Add the onions and reduce the heat to medium

Step 3

3 Cook, stirring, until the onions are translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes; add the flattened garlic cloves and cook 1 to 2 minutes, or until their aroma is released, then add the strained tomatoes and stir to combine

Step 4

4 Pour the 1/2 cup wine or water into the tomato container and swirl around to dissolve any tomato puree remaining

Step 5

5 Add this water/wine to the pot

Step 6

6 Add 1 teaspoon of the herbs, 1 tablespoon of the sugar, salt and pepper to taste, stirring to combine

Step 7

7 When the sauce starts to bubble in the center, reduce the heat to medium-low, if necessary, to maintain the bubbling center

Step 8

8 After 25 minutes, stir the sauce, taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more herbs, sugar, salt or pepper

Step 9

9 If the sauce gets too thick, add water or wine, 1/4 cup at a time

Step 10

10 Cook for 20 minutes, then remove and discard the garlic

Step 11

11 Strain the sauce (to remove onion pieces), if desired

Step 12

12 May be transferred to a storage container, covered and refrigerated

Step 13

13 When ready to serve, prepare the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water over medium-high heat, cook the pasta according to package directions

Step 14

14 Drain, and serve topped with the sauce