Authentic Italian Gravy
This Authentic Italian Gravy is a labor of love that brings the rich flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Simmered slowly throughout the day, this sauce is perfect for pasta, meats, and more. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this traditional gravy transforms any meal into a special occasion. With its deep flavor and hearty texture, it’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of slow-simmered ingredients results in a depth of flavor that makes every bite unforgettable.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for pasta, meat dishes, or even as a dip for breadsticks!
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this gravy is a breeze.
- Slow Cooked Goodness: Allowing the sauce to simmer for hours enhances its richness and complexity.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields enough gravy to serve six people generously.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking your Authentic Italian Gravy easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Roasting pan
- 6-quart stockpot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Roasting pan: Ideal for browning meat evenly while allowing flavors to develop.
- 6-quart stockpot: Perfect size for simmering large quantities of sauce without spillage.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This Authentic Italian Gravy is simmered all day to yield a rich and delicious sauce. It’s perfect for any Italian dish!
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup red wine (plus 1/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 beef short ribs
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Tomato Base Ingredients
- 2 28-ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 1 28-ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
Seasoning Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
Meat Addition
- 1 pound Italian sausage (cooked and drained)
How to Make Authentic Italian Gravy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a roasting pan, combine 1 cup red wine, olive oil, beef short ribs, onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat all ingredients.
Step 2: Roast the Meat
Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes until browned.
Step 3: Transfer to Stockpot
Remove from the oven and carefully transfer the mixture into a 6-quart stockpot over medium-low heat. Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup red wine. Simmer for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add Tomato Products
Add the following ingredients to the stockpot:
– Whole peeled tomatoes
– Tomato paste
– Tomato sauce
– Beef broth
– Dried basil
– Dried oregano
– Chopped parsley
Stir everything together well. Allow it to simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces—this will take about 4 to 6 hours.
Step 5: Finish with Sausage
Once reduced, remove the beef short ribs from the sauce. Stir in the cooked and drained sausage. Continue simmering for another hour.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your delicious Authentic Italian Gravy over freshly cooked pasta or alongside your favorite Italian dish! Enjoy!
How to Serve Authentic Italian Gravy
Serving Authentic Italian Gravy can elevate any meal. This rich and hearty sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice for your dining table.
With Pasta
- Spaghetti: The classic pairing; the sauce clings beautifully to the strands.
- Penne: This shape captures the gravy inside, providing a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Fettuccine: Wide noodles hold the sauce well and create a comforting dish.
Over Meat
- Meatballs: Serve meatballs smothered in this gravy for an Italian feast.
- Chicken Cutlets: Top lightly breaded chicken with the gravy for added moisture and taste.
- Eggplant Parmesan: A delightful vegetarian option, layering eggplant with gravy adds depth.
As a Dip
- Garlic Breadsticks: Use the gravy as a dipping sauce for warm, crusty breadsticks.
- Bruschetta: Spread on toasted bread as an appetizer, topped with fresh basil.
With Rice or Polenta
- Risotto: Spoon over creamy risotto for a hearty meal.
- Polenta: Pair with soft polenta for a comforting and satisfying dish.
How to Perfect Authentic Italian Gravy
To achieve the best flavor in your Authentic Italian Gravy, consider these tips that enhance its richness and depth.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality tomatoes and fresh herbs for better flavor.
- Simmer Longer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for several hours enhances its complexity and richness.
- Incorporate Wine Early: Adding red wine at both stages brings depth to the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; adjusting salt and spices will help balance flavors perfectly.
- Add Fresh Herbs Last: Stirring in fresh herbs near the end preserves their vibrant flavors and colors.
Best Side Dishes for Authentic Italian Gravy
Pairing side dishes with your Authentic Italian Gravy can create a complete dining experience. Here are some great options that complement the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is ideal for soaking up extra sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gravy.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring brightness alongside savory gravy dishes.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa, adding texture and substance to your meal.
- Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries make an excellent finger food option alongside pasta dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Authentic Italian Gravy can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your sauce. Here are some tips to steer clear of these pitfalls:
- Ignoring Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality tomatoes or wine can ruin the depth of flavor. Always choose high-quality, whole peeled tomatoes and a good red wine for the best results.
- Skipping the Simmer Time: Rushing the cooking process will lead to less flavor. Allowing the gravy to simmer for several hours develops a rich, complex taste.
- Not Tasting as You Go: Failing to taste during cooking may result in an unbalanced sauce. Regularly taste your gravy and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough room for everything to cook properly, especially when roasting meats.
- Forgetting Fresh Herbs: Using only dried herbs can make your gravy taste flat. Incorporate fresh herbs towards the end of cooking for a vibrant flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Authentic Italian Gravy
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Authentic Italian Gravy
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the gravy in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warm, about 30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer gravy to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Authentic Italian Gravy:
Can I use different meats in my Authentic Italian Gravy?
Yes! While beef short ribs are traditional, you can use pork or chicken for different flavors.
What type of wine is best for Authentic Italian Gravy?
A dry red wine like Chianti or Merlot works well, enhancing the sauce’s richness.
How do I know when my Authentic Italian Gravy is done?
The gravy should be thickened and reduced. Taste frequently and adjust seasonings as needed throughout cooking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure that all ingredients, including broth and sausage, are labeled gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Italian Gravy is not just a sauce; it’s a labor of love that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its rich flavors pair beautifully with various pastas, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite meats or spices for a personal touch!
Authentic Italian Gravy
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this Authentic Italian Gravy recipe, a true labor of love that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and hearty sauce. Perfect for pasta, meats, or as a dip, this traditional sauce is simmered slowly to develop deep flavors that will impress family and friends alike. With its robust texture and versatile use, it’s suitable for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. This Authentic Italian Gravy is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup red wine
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 beef short ribs
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cans whole peeled tomatoes (28-ounce)
- 1 pound cooked Italian sausage
- Dried basil
- Dried oregano
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
- Tomato paste
- Tomato sauce
- Beef broth
- 1/4 cup red wine
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. In a roasting pan, combine red wine, olive oil, beef short ribs, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes until browned.
- Transfer mixture to a stockpot over medium-low heat. Stir in remaining red wine and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried herbs, and parsley to the pot. Simmer uncovered for 4-6 hours.
- Remove short ribs; stir in cooked sausage and simmer for another hour.
- Serve over pasta or your favorite Italian dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 7 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 355
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
