The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Seasoning

Spaghetti sauce is a staple in many households, and while store-bought sauces can be convenient, there’s nothing quite like the flavor of a homemade spaghetti sauce. One of the key elements to a delicious homemade spaghetti sauce is the seasoning. Finding the perfect combination of herbs and spices can take your spaghetti sauce from good to great.

Here is a guide to creating the ultimate homemade spaghetti sauce seasoning, along with a delicious spaghetti sauce recipe to go with it.

The Basics:

Before we dive into the specific herbs and spices, it’s important to start with a good base for your spaghetti sauce. This typically includes onions, garlic, and canned tomatoes. From there, you can add in your chosen herbs and spices to give your sauce that perfect flavor.

The Herbs and Spices:

The key to a well-seasoned spaghetti sauce is finding the right balance of herbs and spices. Here are some essential herbs and spices to consider:

1. Basil: Fresh or dried basil is a must for any spaghetti sauce. It adds a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that is perfect for Italian dishes.

2. Oregano: Oregano is another essential herb for spaghetti sauce. It has a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.

3. Thyme: Thyme adds a subtle, earthy flavor to your sauce and can help to round out the overall taste.

4. Rosemary: A touch of rosemary can add depth and complexity to your spaghetti sauce.

5. Parsley: Fresh parsley can brighten up your sauce and add a pop of color.

6. Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to your spaghetti sauce.

The Recipe:

Now that you know the key herbs and spices, it’s time to put them to use in a delicious homemade spaghetti sauce. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

2. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.

3. Let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve the spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta and enjoy!

Creating the ultimate homemade spaghetti sauce seasoning is all about finding the perfect balance of herbs and spices. With this guide and recipe, you’ll be on your way to making a delicious and flavorful spaghetti sauce that will have your family coming back for seconds. So, get creative and experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect spaghetti sauce seasoning!