Authentic Italian Gravy: A Warm Hug in a Bowl

Authentic Italian gravy is a rich, savory sauce that captures the essence of home cooking.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6 30

Servings: 8 cups

Course: Sauces

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

1 cup Red Wine Adds depth and richness; substitute with beef broth if avoiding alcohol.
0.25 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Provides a smooth base and enhances the overall flavors.
1 Large Onion, chopped Builds the aromatic foundation of the sauce.
6 Garlic Cloves, minced Offers essential flavor to the gravy.
1 tsp Salt Enhances all flavors, making them pop.
0.5 tsp Ground Black Pepper Adds a subtle heat that balances the richness.

For the Main Body

4 pieces Beef Short Ribs The primary source of meatiness and flavor; omit for a vegetarian version.
2 cans, 28-ounce Whole Peeled Tomatoes The essential base for this sauce, packing flavor.
1 can, 6-ounce Tomato Paste Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
1 can, 28-ounce Tomato Sauce Complements the whole tomatoes and contributes to texture.
2 cups Beef Broth Adds moisture and richness; vegetable broth works for vegetarian.

Herb Infusion

1 tbsp Dried Basil Imparts a classic Italian flavor.
1 tbsp Dried Oregano Complements the basil, adding depth.
0.25 cup Chopped Fresh Italian Parsley Brings freshness and vibrant color.

For the Meaty Touch

1 pound Italian Sausage, cooked and drained Offers additional meatiness; use meatballs or omit for vegetarian.

Equipment

roasting pan
6-quart stockpot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Italian Gravy

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather a roasting pan for the next steps.
In the roasting pan, mix together red wine, olive oil, beef short ribs, onion, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart stockpot. Scrape up any browned bits and pour in remaining red wine. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes.
Add whole peeled tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir in basil and oregano. Allow to simmer uncovered for 4 to 6 hours.
Remove beef short ribs from the sauce, shred the meat with two forks, and return it to the pot along with Italian sausage. Simmer for an additional hour.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve generously over pasta, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Simmering longer allows deep flavors to develop fully. Add fresh herbs just before serving for enhanced freshness.

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