How to Make Traditional Italian Marinara with Garlic

Marinara sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, cherished for its simple ingredients and robust flavor. Making traditional Italian marinara with garlic is not just easy, but also incredibly rewarding. This classic sauce can be used for pasta dishes, pizzas, or as a dipping sauce for bread. Below is a step-by-step guide to create authentic marinara sauce that features the rich taste of garlic.

Ingredients

To create a delicious traditional Italian marinara with garlic, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the Olive Oil

Begin by pouring the olive oil into a medium-sized saucepan and heat it over medium heat. Olive oil is essential as it lends a fruity flavor that enhances the overall taste of the marinara sauce.

2. Sauté the Garlic

Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it gently for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter and ruin the sauce.

3. Add Crushed Tomatoes

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine the garlic and oil with the tomatoes. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your marinara sauce.

4. Season the Sauce

Add in the dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. The sugar will help cut through the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a balanced flavor. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together, creating a rich, savory marinara. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

6. Taste and Adjust

After simmering, taste the marinara sauce. Adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the saucepan from heat. Serve the marinara sauce hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an added layer of flavor. Enjoy it over pasta, as a pizza base, or even as a dip for breadsticks!

Tips for the Best Marinara Sauce

• For a deeper flavor, consider adding red wine to the sauce during the simmering stage.
• Using fresh tomatoes in season can add a delightful freshness to the sauce; simply blanch, peel, and crush them.
• Customize your marinara by adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or other herbs like thyme or parsley for a different taste profile.

Making traditional Italian marinara with garlic at home is a gratifying experience that enhances many dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a sauce that captures the essence of Italian cooking. Enjoy and share your homemade marinara with friends and family!