Crock Pot Marinara Sauce (Vegetarian and Fat-Free)

If possible sauté the onions and garlic in about 3 tablespoons oil in a small skillet before adding to the crock pot, if not then just omit the oil, which will make this marinara sauce pretty much fat-free! You will need a minimum of 4-quart crockpot for this recipe. The longer you cook this sauce on low heat the thicker and richer it will be! but it can also be cooked on high-heat setting for about 5 hours if you want a quicker sauce, I strongly suggest to cook it for a longer time! If desired you can double the recipe, this sauce freezes very well!

• Ready In: 8 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 (28 ounce) can  whole Italian-style tomatoes (cut up and undrained)
• 2  large carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 3  stalks celery, diced
• 1  large onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1  tablespoon  minced fresh garlic (can use more)
• 1  large bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1⁄2 cup water
• 2 -3  teaspoons sugar
• 2 -3  teaspoons  dried Italian seasoning (rubbed between fingers to release the flavors)
• 2 -4  teaspoons dried red pepper flakes (optional or to taste)
• 1  large bay leaf
•  salt and black pepper (I use quite a lot of salt to bring out the flavor!)

Directions

1. Place ALL ingredients in a minimum 4-quart crock pot/slow-cooker; mix well cover and cook on low heat for about 8-10 hours.
2. Uncover and cook on high heat for the last 1-1/2 hours.
3. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
4. Delicious!