Pepperoni Sauce

Step 1

Season the pork ribs: Sprinkle the country-style pork ribs with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cracked black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Ensure the ribs are evenly coated with the seasonings.

Step 2

Brown the pork ribs: In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned pork ribs and brown them on each side until they develop a golden crust. Remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3

Saute the onions and spices: In the same pot, sauté the chopped Vidalia onion until it turns golden. Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning blend, and 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Stir and cook until fragrant.

Step 4

Add garlic and parsley: Stir in 7 cloves of chopped garlic and 1/4 cup of chopped Italian fresh parsley. Cook for a minute or two until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 5

Deglaze with red wine: Pour in 6 ounces of red wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes, letting the alcohol burn off.

Step 6

Incorporate tomato paste: Add 3 ounces of tomato paste to the red wine sauce and cook until the paste turns a deep reddish-brown color.

Step 7

Reintroduce the pork ribs: Return the browned pork ribs to the pot, along with any juices accumulated on the plate.

Step 8

Crushed tomatoes and passata: Pour in one 28-ounce can of whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes (crushed by hand), one 28-ounce can of all-purpose crushed tomatoes, and 12 ounces of passata. Fill the empty passata bottle with water, give it a good shake, and pour the water into the pot.

Step 9

Bring to a boil: Stir the sauce well and bring it to a boil.

Step 10

Add remaining ingredients: Add 6.5 ounces of sliced pepperoni, a 2-ounce hunk of Pecorino Romano, 2 bay leaves, and a handful of fresh basil to the sauce pot. Stir gently to combine.

Step 11

Simmer and cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot halfway with a lid, and simmer the sauce for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust the heat as needed. Remember to layer your seasonings, taste your sauce and add more seasonings as needed.

Step 12

Prepare the pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Before adding the sauce, toss the cooked pasta with butter for added richness.

Step 13

Serve and enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened and the pork ribs are tender, serve the sauce over the buttered pasta. Garnish with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, and savor the exquisite flavors of this delicious dish.