Red Sauce for Pasta

Submitted by NicestAlan

"This has evolved over the years, but is my basis for many things pseudo-Italian. I've used it for all sorts of pasta, and also made lasagna with it. I make a big batch, since it freezes well."

 

• Ready In: 2hrs 15mins
• Ingredients: 18
• Serves: 6-8

ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or mix)
• 1 large white onion, chopped
• 1 large green pepper, chopped
• 3 stalks celery, chopped fine
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 (28 ounce) cans Italian tomatoes, Italian brand, chopped
• 2 fresh plum tomatoes, chopped
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste, Italian brand
• 2 -3 pureed or finely grated carrots
• 1⁄2 cup chopped parsley
• salt
• pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried basil or 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano or 3 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• red pepper flakes or hot sauce
• 1 cup red wine

directions

1. Sauté sausage, ground meat, onion, pepper, celery, and garlic in a little virgin olive oil.
2. Add remaining ingredients.
3. Cook 1 hour or more, uncovered, until a wooden spoon stands up in it without falling over.
4. Serve over pasta with salad and garlic bread, wine, and cannolis for dessert.