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Flavorful Marinara Sauce Recipe with Easy Sweet Balsamic Reduction

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A quick and easy marinara sauce enhanced with a sweet balsamic reduction for a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Ideal for pasta, dipping, or drizzling over veggies.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 28 ounces (800g) canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) sweet balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the tomato paste and cook while stirring for 2 minutes to deepen flavor and thicken the sauce.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with 1/4 cup (60ml) water and stir well to combine.
  6. Season with dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper; stir to mix evenly.
  7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and deepened in color.
  8. While the sauce simmers, prepare the sweet balsamic reduction by pouring 1/4 cup (60ml) sweet balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 5-7 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves and the balsamic reduction. Taste and adjust salt or add a teaspoon of granulated sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
  10. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let flavors meld, resulting in a rich, balanced, and glossy sauce.
  11. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, strain through a fine mesh strainer for a smoother texture.

Notes

Low and slow simmering is key to develop deep flavor. Do not burn garlic or balsamic reduction. Adjust seasoning at the end. The sauce tastes better after resting for a day. For a smoother sauce, strain before serving. Sugar can be swapped with honey or maple syrup for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: marinara sauce, balsamic reduction, tomato sauce, easy marinara, homemade sauce, pasta sauce, vegan sauce, gluten-free sauce

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/flavorful-marinara-sauce-recipe-with-easy-sweet-balsamic-reduction/