Mediteranean Farm House Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

There is something magical about the Mediteranean region—its sun-drenched landscapes, the aroma of fresh herbs, and the culinary traditions that go back centuries. Today, we will delve into a beloved dish that brings all these elements together: the Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce recipe. This isn't just any spaghetti sauce; it’s a tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas that are inspired by the essence of the Mediterranean countryside.

Ingredients for the Mediteranean Farm Houe Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

To craft the perfect Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce, you need a combination of fresh and high-quality ingredients that capture the heart of the Mediterranean region. The ingredients list may look long, but each element plays a crucial role in building the sauce's rich and aromatic profile.

2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
1 cup finely chopped onions
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
1 large carrot, finely grated
1 zucchini, finely chopped
1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms
2 cups fresh tomatoes, peeled and pureed
1 can (15 oz) of crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions on Preparing the Mediteranean Farm Houe Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Follow these steps to make your very own Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce from scratch. Attention to detail and patience are key to achieving a sauce bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide

Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, ensuring not to burn the garlic.
Add Vegetables: Introduce the chopped bell pepper, grated carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms to the pan. Cook the vegetables until they are tender and have released their moisture.
Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the fresh tomato puree, canned crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well before adding the vegetable or chicken broth.
Seasoning: Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, and marjoram. Season with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes if using. Add the sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce.
Simmer: Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for at least 30-40 minutes. The longer you let the sauce simmer, the more the flavors will meld together.
Finishing Touches: Add the fresh parsley to the sauce before turning off the heat. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Garnish: Serve your Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce with freshly cooked spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Tips for the Perfect Mediteranean Farm Houe Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

The secret to an exceptional Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce recipe lies in a few expert tips that can elevate the dish from good to extraordinary.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh, organic ingredients to capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Slow Cook: The longer the sauce simmers, the richer the flavors. Be patient and let the sauce develop.
Balance Flavors: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to achieve a balanced flavor profile. A touch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Consistency: If you prefer a smoother texture, consider blending the sauce before serving. Otherwise, enjoy the rustic texture of the chopped vegetables.
Customize: Feel free to add other Mediterranean ingredients like olives, capers, or artichokes to personalize the sauce to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions that might arise when preparing the Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce recipe.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce. Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

While fresh tomatoes provide a bright and fresh flavor, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes to ensure the best taste.

What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?

While this sauce is traditionally paired with spaghetti, feel free to use any pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta are great options.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add extra heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a chopped fresh chili pepper to the sauce while it cooks. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Can I make this sauce vegan?

Absolutely! This Mediteranean farm houe spaghetti sauce recipe is inherently vegan if you use vegetable broth. Ensure all other ingredients are free of animal products.

Why do you add sugar to the sauce?

Sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce. It's optional and can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.