Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Shiitake Mushrooms and roasted Bell Pepper
Add this chunky, flavorful tomato sauce to your favorite pasta noodles. This sauce adds texture, flavor variations including mild smokiness, a bit of sweet/sour tang, low heat, and lean meat protein. You may also find this sauce goes well with other varieties of pasta - including Lasagna.
1. Brown and drain Meatball/Meatloaf mix. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, while browning, if desired. Set this aside in a large covered container, to keep warm. 2. Slice red bell pepper (seeds removed) in 1" strips, then cut into thirds and roast in a dutch oven with EVOO, stirring occasionally. Remove, drain and add to the covered container. 3. Saute chopped onion, until soft & clear, adding a pinch of sugar to aid in caramelization. Clear a spot in the center, adding the garlic in the last minute - stirring the garlic frequently to prevent burning. Again, remove, drain and add to the covered container. 4. Saute sliced Shiitake mushrooms until noticeably browned not burned. Mushrooms should remain thick and pliable. 5. Reduce heat and add tomatoes. Scrape the bottom with a wooden or other non-metallic spatula, to deglaze the dutch oven. Return the remaining ingredients, including all spices, raisins and soy sauce. Simmer, covered, for 90 minutes on low heat. Stir frequently to marry the flavors. 6. Cook Spaghetti noodles/pasta, per directions on box. Drain well. 7. Plate the Spaghetti, ladle sauce and top with freshly grated Romano cheese. 8. Mangia, mangia, Mama Mia! Tips * Serve fresh bread with a dipping bowl of EVOO and cracked peppercorns, as an appetizer. * Add a pinch of sugar to the garlic (and onions) to aid in caramelization. * Roasting the bell peppers adds a nice mild smoky flavor otherwise missed when sauteing. * Noodles made of whole wheat, whole grains or spinach are healthier than those made with enriched flour. * When using canned tomato, choose a low salt content, if you are watching blood pressure. * Whether you believe in "umami" or not, soy sauce really enhances the flavor! * This dish goes well paired with a nice red wine! Warnings * Olive Oil has a low smoke point, so watch the heat! * Garlic cooks fast & burns easily (again - watch the heat). Copyright 5/22/2012 All Rights Reserved. Questions? Comments? Contact Me Related Articles: Food & Drink |
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