Recipe #5: Classic Spaghetti & Meatsauce

Who doesn't love this scrumptious Italian staple? I just picture a cute little Italian family with Robert DeNiro at the head of the table, " Heyyah Uncle Louie, pass the MeatSwass will ya?!" 

LOL! I'm Hispanic and we do the same thing!  So, let's take a look at my version of this signature dish that has a tiny bit of spice, a tiny bit of smokiness, and a tiny bit of sweetness!  Not to mention, it's rich, chunky, texture!  The Perfect Meat Sauce!

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/2 Tbsp of White Sugar

1 Package of Ground Chuck or Beef

24 oz Can of Crushed Tomatoes

6 oz Can of Tomato Paste

1 Shallot

1 Tbsp White Wine

1/2 Roll of Wheat Ritz Crackers

2 1/2 Tbsp of Minced Garlic

1 Package of Spaghetti Pasta

2 Tbsp of Smoked Paprika

1 Tbsp of Salt

1 Tbsp of Garlic Powder

1/2 Tbsp of Black Pepper

1/2 Tbsp of Onion Powder

1/2 Tbsp of Cayenne Pepper

1/2 Tbsp of Dried Oregano

1/2 Tbsp of Dried Thyme

1/2 Tbsp of Adobo

1 Tsp of Basil

A Drizzle of Olive Oil (not pictured)

Parmesan Cheese for Topping (not pictured)

Directions:

Cook Pasta according to directions until "al dente."

In a seperate pan, saute minced garlic and chopped up shallot in a drizzle of olive oil.  "Carapelli" has a great flavor and is not on the expensive side.

Next, add your shallots and garlic to a food processor along with the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.

Add your meat to the already oiled pan and add the crushed crackers, and wine.

Once meat is browned, add the sauce from your food processor and lower the stove to a low simmer.

In a separate bowl, mix all seasonings together and stir into your sauce.

Last, but not least, add your hint of sweetness.  Add your sugar to taste, depending on how sweet you would like it.  I added about 2 1/2 Tablespoons because I like a sweet and savory sauce.  Top with Shredded Parmesan and enjoy!