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Classic Marinara Sauce

A simple tomato sauce that can be used for dozens of things. Store in lidded containers in the freezer and heat it up as needed. Or just eat it all at once for large gatherings - either way it's super tasty. 
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 8

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 4-5 cloves garlic smashed, peeled
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 sprigs thyme
  • 3 sprigs oregano
  • 1 medium orange zested and juiced
  • 2 28oz cans diced tomatoes
  • 1 large carrot peeled, cut into 3 large pieces
  • salt tt
  • black pepper tt
  • 1 pinch nutmeg optional, fresh ground if possible

Instructions

  • Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, reduce the heat to medium low and sweat the onions and garlic until translucent. 
  • Add the bay leaf, thyme and oregano and stir around. Allow to sweat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. 
  • Add 2 tsp orange zest and the juice of the orange (it needs to be fresh squeezed - concentrate will be too acidic). Stir around. 
  • Add the tomatoes and stir together. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the pieces of carrot, stir together and simmer for 30 minutes. Be sure to stir it every 5-8 minutes to prevent scorching. If sauce becomes too thick, add chicken stock or bone broth. 
  • Use the sauce immediately or store in the freezer for up to one month.