Canned Spaghetti Sauce
Canned spaghetti sauce is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for busy households. Making your own sauce allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, making it healthier and tastier than store-bought options. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also results in a rich and flavorful sauce that you can use in a variety of dishes.
Why Make This Recipe
Making canned spaghetti sauce at home is a great way to save money and reduce food waste. You can use fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes that you might have on hand. This sauce is also customizable, allowing you to adjust the flavors to suit your preference. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to have homemade sauce ready whenever you need it, perfect for meals on busy days.
How to Make Canned Spaghetti Sauce
Making canned spaghetti sauce is straightforward. Follow these steps to create your delicious, homemade sauce.
Ingredients:
- 24 cups Reduced & Pureed Tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp. Garlic Powder
- 2 Tbsp. Onion Powder
- 2 Tbsp. Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes
- 3 Bay Leaves
- 2 Tbsp. Sea Salt
- 1 Tbsp. Black Pepper
- 12 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
- 1 Tbsp. Sugar or monk fruit sweetener to balance the acid (optional)
Directions:
- Start by preparing your tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, reduce and puree them until smooth.
- In a large pot, combine the pureed tomatoes with the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, bay leaves, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Mix the ingredients well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes, but longer for a richer flavor.
- Taste the sauce and add sugar or monk fruit sweetener if you want to balance the acidity.
- Once finished, remove the bay leaves.
- Ladle the hot sauce into sterilized jars or cans, leaving about an inch of headspace.
- Seal the jars and process them in a hot water bath if you wish to store them long-term.
How to Serve Canned Spaghetti Sauce
Canned spaghetti sauce is perfect for serving with pasta. Simply heat the sauce in a pan until warm and toss it with cooked spaghetti or any pasta of your choice. It can also be used as a base for pizza, lasagna, or meatball subs.
How to Store Canned Spaghetti Sauce
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to use an airtight container. If you processed the sauce for long-term storage, keep it in a cool, dark place, and it can last for up to a year.
Tips to Make Canned Spaghetti Sauce
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor if you go that route.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to create your preferred taste.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer it longer to reduce liquid content.
Variation
You can create variations of this sauce by adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Feel free to add protein, such as ground beef, turkey, or sausage, for a heartier sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes! Just puree them and follow the recipe as directed.
2. How long does canned spaghetti sauce last?
If processed correctly, it can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place.
3. Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce in airtight containers for up to six months. Just thaw before using.
Making your own canned spaghetti sauce is a simple and rewarding cooking project. You can enjoy great meals with fresh flavors anytime!
