Italian Tomato Sauce

ItalianPorkIntermediate75 minBy Northstar

Ingredients

Servings
4
  • 2 can diced or ground tomatoes (28 oz each)
  • 3 tbsp high-quality olive oil
  • 1 large thick pork chop or 1.5 lbs beef chuck steak
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
  • 4 clove garlic, peeled and crushed
  • 0.5 cup red wine
  • 1 0.5 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp fresh basil or Italian parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    If using whole tomatoes, drain them, reserve the liquid, and chop. Set aside.

  2. 2

    In a nonreactive Dutch oven, heat the olive oil. Season the pork chop with salt and pepper and brown over medium-high heat on both sides, about 8 minutes total. Remove meat and set aside.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to medium-low, add the onion and carrot, and sauté until softened, 8 to 10 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

  4. 4

    Return the meat and accumulated juices to the pot. Add the wine. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 3 minutes.

  5. 5

    Add the tomatoes and salt. Bring back to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and cook until meat is tender, about 45 to 55 minutes.

  6. 6

    Remove meat and keep warm. Raise heat to medium and continue cooking sauce about 5 minutes until thickened.

  7. 7

    Stir in basil and/or parsley. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.

  8. 8

    Serve sauce over pasta with the tender meat on the side.