Nona’s Sugo (Pasta Sauce)
Growing up in a half Italian family Sunday’s meant church, football and of course pasta, meatballs and sauce or sugo as we call it. I spent a lot of my time as a child with my grandparents and I cherish every memory with them. I learned so much from them, more than they would ever know, and I feel so grateful for the time I was able to spend with them on both sides of the family. Both sets of grandparents were affectionally known as Nona and Papa. My father’s side of the family is the Italian side and that is where the Sunday Italian dinners come in.
Sugo is more then just pasta sauce in our family; it’s a symbol of love and tradition that has been passed down through many generations. The process of making it together in the kitchen with its aroma filling the house creates lasting memories. Each bite brings back stories of special moments past and the joy of sharing something homemade and special. Whether served over spaghetti, ravioli or used in a lasagna this recipe is a family favorite that never disappoints. I am excited to one day share this special tradition with my children.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
2- 6oz cans tomato paste
3- 12 oz cans tomato sauce
1 lb ground beef
1 garlic clove coarsely chopped
2 tbsp parmesan cheese
small onion finely chopped
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 cup red wine
tbsp dried basil
pinch of cinnamon
garlic salt, pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. When almost browned completely add in chopped onion and cook an additional 2 minutes.
Add in garlic and sauté till it becomes fragrant. Next add tomato paste, refilling each can with water and also adding that in.
Pour in tomato sauce and add all other ingredients.
Boil at start then turn to medium boil for 15-20 minutes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat allowing it to cook for 4-5 hours. Stir occasionally and let it thicken. if the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
Buon Appetito!
Natalie
