Best Easy Authentic Italian Sunday Gravy Recipes
Sunday gravy is a classic Italian dish that is cherished by many. This rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce is typically simmered for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a deliciously satisfying meal. If you’re looking to recreate this traditional Italian dish, here are some of the best easy authentic Sunday gravy recipes to try.
1. Classic Sunday Gravy
Ingredients:
– 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté until softened.
2. Add the red wine and cook until it evaporates.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve over your favorite pasta and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Meatball Sunday Gravy
Ingredients:
– 1 batch of Classic Sunday Gravy
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs and brown them in a skillet with olive oil.
3. Add the meatballs to the Classic Sunday Gravy during the last hour of simmering.
4. Serve the meatballs and sauce over pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
3. Sausage and Peppers Sunday Gravy
Ingredients:
– 1 batch of Classic Sunday Gravy
– 1 pound Italian sausage links
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage links and brown on all sides.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the peppers, onion, and garlic until softened.
3. Add the sausage and sautéed vegetables to the Classic Sunday Gravy during the last hour of simmering.
4. Serve the sausage, peppers, and sauce over pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Q&A
1. Can I make Sunday gravy without meat?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meatballs and sausage. Simply follow the Classic Sunday Gravy recipe and enjoy the rich flavors of the tomato-based sauce.
2. How long should I simmer the Sunday gravy?
For the best flavor, simmer the Sunday gravy for at least 2 hours. However, you can simmer it for longer if desired.
3. Can I freeze Sunday gravy?
Yes, you can freeze Sunday gravy. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply blanch, peel, and crush the tomatoes before adding them to the sauce.
5. What can I serve with Sunday gravy?
Sunday gravy is traditionally served over pasta, such as spaghetti or rigatoni. It can also be served with crusty bread or used as a sauce for lasagna.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the Sunday gravy?
Yes, you can add additional vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant to the gravy for added flavor and texture.
7. Can I use white wine instead of red wine?
While red wine is traditionally used in Sunday gravy, you can substitute it with white wine if desired. Keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.
8. Can I make Sunday gravy in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Sunday gravy in a slow cooker. Simply follow the recipe instructions and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.
9. How do I reheat leftover Sunday gravy?
Reheat leftover Sunday gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until hot.