When I think of family dinners that fill the heart and soul, Nonna’s Sugo instantly comes to mind. For generations, this sugo has been a cornerstone in my family’s kitchen.
The smell of tomatoes simmering with garlic and basil takes me back to simpler times—sitting around the table, everyone sharing stories, savoring each bite.
I’m so excited to pass down this classic recipe to you because it’s not just a sauce; it’s a tradition!
If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make sauce, let’s dive into Nonna’s Sugo recipe together and make it part of your family’s kitchen, too.
How To Make Nonna’s Sugo Recipe: Classic Italian Sauce
A simple yet rich Nonna’s Sugo Recipe that brings out the authentic taste of Italian tomatoes, garlic, and basil. This sugo, or Italian tomato sauce, is perfect for pasta nights and family gatherings.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Cuisine: Italian
- Course: Sauce
- Difficulty: Easy
- Yield: 6 servings
- Calories Per Serving: 150 kcal
Ingredients
For The Sugo:
- 1 can (28 oz) peeled whole tomatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced
- 8-10 fresh basil leaves
- Salt to taste
Optional For Classic Pasta Pomodoro:
- Pasta of choice
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare The Tomatoes:
Pour the peeled tomatoes into a large bowl and crush them with your hands to release the juices. This old-school technique is a classic Italian method that keeps the sauce rustic and hearty. - Sauté The Garlic:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Be careful not to let it brown—burnt garlic will overpower the sugo’s delicate flavors. - Add The Tomatoes And Basil:
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan, stirring to combine. Toss in the basil leaves and season with salt. Allow it to come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. - Simmer To Perfection:
Let the sugo cook slowly on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally and adjust the salt if needed. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens and the flavors are deeply melded together. - Serve And Enjoy:
Toss your sugo with cooked pasta, top with grated Parmesan, and enjoy a warm, comforting Italian meal that’ll bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen.
Tips And Tricks
- Low And Slow Cooking: Allowing the sugo to simmer on low heat is the secret to building deep, rich flavors.
- Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook a bit longer, uncovered, to evaporate extra liquid.
- Adding A Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or a splash of red wine for depth.
- Storage And Leftovers: Store leftover sugo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
What Is Sugo Made Of?
Sugo is an Italian tomato sauce primarily made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil.
This simple combination lets the natural flavors shine, making it ideal for pasta and Italian dishes.
What Is Nonna Sauce?
Nonna Sauce, or Nonna’s Sugo, is a classic homemade tomato sauce that’s traditionally passed down through generations.
The term “Nonna” (meaning grandmother in Italian) signifies its authenticity and homestyle flavor.
What’s The Difference Between Sugo And Ragu?
While both are traditional Italian sauces, sugo is a light tomato-based sauce with minimal ingredients, highlighting the freshness of tomatoes.
Ragu, on the other hand, is a heartier, meat-based sauce, often simmered for hours to deepen the flavors.
Is Sugo The Same As Marinara Sauce?
Sugo and marinara are similar but distinct. Sugo di Pomodoro is often thicker and richer, while marinara tends to be a bit lighter and quicker to prepare.
Both are beloved in Italian cuisine, yet sugo has a special place for its depth and warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Nonna’s Sugo is a versatile sauce that pairs beautifully with all kinds of pasta, from spaghetti to penne. For an extra-special touch, serve it with freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese.
This sauce also makes a delicious topping for chicken parmesan or baked ziti, adding a layer of authentic Italian flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Sugo With Fresh Tomatoes Instead Of Canned?
Yes! Fresh, ripe tomatoes work beautifully. Just peel, deseed, and crush them before adding to the recipe.
How Can I Make The Sauce Spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic to give the sauce a slight kick.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead Of Fresh?
Fresh basil brings the best flavor, but if it’s unavailable, use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute.
Can I Use Sugo As A Pizza Sauce?
Absolutely! This sugo makes a delicious pizza base—just spread it over the dough before adding your toppings.
Closing
There you have it—Nonna’s Sugo Recipe! I hope this sauce becomes a beloved part of your kitchen, just as it is in mine.
Try it out, experiment with the flavors, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. And if you loved this sugo, check out my other Italian recipes for more inspiration. Happy cooking!
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