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Authentic Italian Gravy

Hearty Authentic Italian Gravy: A Family Comfort Classic

This Authentic Italian Gravy offers hearty flavors and comforting warmth for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Red Wine Substitute with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can be replaced with any neutral oil if needed.
  • 2 pounds Beef Short Ribs Omit for a vegetarian/vegan option.
  • 1 large Onion Use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Increase quantity for a more robust taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste based on dietary preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Use white pepper for a different flavor profile.
  • 28 ounces Whole Peeled Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be substituted when in season.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can be omitted if using fresh tomatoes.
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce Substitute with additional blended tomatoes if preferred.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth Switch to vegetable broth for vegetarian preparation.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Basil Fresh basil can be substituted for a brighter flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Thyme or Italian seasoning can be alternatives.
  • 1 cup Fresh Italian Parsley Omit for a more traditional sauce.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Can be substituted with meatballs or omitted for a vegetarian version.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Roasting pan
  • Stockpot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Italian Gravy
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a roasting pan.
  2. Combine the red wine, extra virgin olive oil, beef short ribs, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and ground black pepper in the roasting pan.
  3. Roast for 1.5 hours until the short ribs are brown and fork-tender.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a stockpot over medium-low heat, add the remaining red wine and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
  5. Stir in the whole peeled tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, and oregano. Simmer uncovered for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove the short ribs and stir in the cooked Italian sausage. Simmer for an additional hour.
  7. Serve over al dente pasta and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Take your time during simmering for the best flavor. Adjust seasonings as needed and feel free to experiment with ingredients for variety.

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