Are you ready to experience a taste of Rochester, New York, in your own kitchen? Then get ready to dive into the rich, savory world of Nick Tahou's legendary meat sauce! This isn't just any meat sauce; it's a Rochester institution, a culinary icon known for its incredibly simple yet unbelievably delicious flavor profile. This recipe brings the magic of Nick Tahou's home-style cooking right to your table, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. It's a delicious dish easily adaptable for any skill level – a true testament to the beauty of simple, homemade cooking.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Simple Flavors
This recipe is all about letting quality ingredients shine. You won't need a pantry stocked with exotic spices; the magic lies in the careful balance of everyday staples.
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
This recipe is surprisingly straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights. Let's get cooking!
-
Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your homemade Nick Tahou's meat sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or ziti. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese is the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks for Meat Sauce Mastery
- Don't rush the simmering process: The longer the sauce simmers, the deeper and more complex the flavor becomes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Add some sweetness: A touch of sugar (1-2 teaspoons) can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. A pinch of fennel seeds or a bay leaf can add interesting layers of flavor.
Variations: Beyond the Classic
- Meat Lovers' Delight: Add Italian sausage or ground pork along with the ground beef for a heartier sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the authentic taste of Rochester with your own homemade Nick Tahou's meat sauce!