Nancy Harris
@natrendha
Authentic Italian Sunday Sauce
This hearty Italian Sunday Sauce is a rich and flavorful blend of pork neck bones, Italian sausage, and meatballs simmered in a robust tomato sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal, this sauce is best served over pasta or with crusty bread.
Details
- Cuisine:italian
- Difficulty:hard
- Estimated Cost:N/A
- Ingredients:16
- Views:5
Recipe Information
- Prep time25 min.
- Cook time4 min.
- Total time29 min.
- Servings12
Ingredients
- 2 pounds
- 2 teaspoons, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon
- 2 tablespoons, divided
- 1 1/4 pounds
- 1 1/2 cups
- 2 cloves
- 2 (12 ounce) cans
- 1 (28 ounce) can
- 1 (28 ounce) can
- 7 cups
- 1 tablespoon, or more to taste
- 1
- 1 tablespoon
- 1/2 teaspoon
- 12
Cooking Instructions
Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Authentic Italian Sunday Sauce.
Step 1
Begin by generously seasoning the pork neck bones with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring every side is coated.
Step 2
In a sturdy stockpot or Dutch oven, warm 4 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 3
Introduce the seasoned neck bones to the pot, allowing them to sizzle for about 6 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
Step 4
Once they achieve a rich color, transfer them to a plate.
Step 5
In the same pot, add the Italian sausage links, browning them for approximately 3 minutes on each side, adding more olive oil if necessary.
Step 6
Once browned, set the sausages aside with the pork.
Step 7
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion, seasoning it with a pinch of salt.
Step 8
Sauté the onion, stirring frequently, until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 9
Add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute, releasing its delightful aroma.
Step 10
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute before adding the tomato puree and crushed tomatoes.
Step 11
Pour in water and a touch of sugar, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth.
Step 12
Enhance the flavor by adding a bay leaf, dried basil, and dried oregano, rubbing the herbs between your fingers to unlock their fragrant essence before incorporating them into the sauce.
Step 13
Slice the browned sausages into hearty chunks and return them to the pot along with the neck bones.
Step 14
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 15
Add the cooked meatballs, then reduce the heat to low, allowing the mixture to simmer for 4 to 6 hours.
Step 16
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 17
Once the simmering is complete, remove the neck bones and bay leaf.
Step 18
Shred any remaining meat from the neck bones and stir it back into the sauce, creating a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Step 19
Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful meal, a true testament to the art of slow cooking.