Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce

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Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, stirring a pot of marinara sauce?

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Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce
Prep
15 min
Cook
6 hr 10 min
Total
6 hr 25 min
Servings
12

Method

  1. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

  2. Saute the onion and garlic in the heated oil until they become soft, which should take about 5 minutes.

  3. Transfer the sauteed onion and garlic to a slow cooker.

  4. Add tomato sauce and tomato paste to the slow cooker.

  5. Set the temperature of the slow cooker to Low.

  6. Cook and stir the mixture until the tomato paste melts, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

  7. Add wine, vinegar, basil, salt, pepper, cilantro, chili powder, paprika, oregano, bay leaves, sugar, and cinnamon to the slow cooker.

  8. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined.

  9. Cover the slow cooker and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it is reduced, which should take about 6 to 8 hours.

  10. Remove the bay leaves from the cooked mixture.

  11. Serve the dish.

  12. If you don't have a slow cooker, you can also use a large pot or Dutch oven. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

  13. If you need to cook it for a longer period of time, don't worry, it will still turn out fine. It can be cooked for up to 10 hours.

  14. If you're in a hurry, you can let the mixture simmer on medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the alcohol

About this recipe

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, stirring a pot of marinara sauce? Well, say goodbye to all that hard work and hello to the world of slow cooker marinara sauce! This delicious and versatile sauce is not only effortless to make, but it also delivers a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Imagine a pot simmering on your stovetop, filling your kitchen with the tantalizing aroma of tomatoes, herbs, and spices. Now imagine being able to achieve that same rich and robust flavor without even lifting a finger. That's the magic of slow cooking.

By allowing the ingredients to simmer and meld together over a longer period of time, the flavors have a chance to develop and intensify. The result? A sauce that is deep in flavor and complexity, with a hint of sweetness and a touch of tanginess.

Effortless Preparation

Preparing slow cooker marinara sauce is as easy as it gets. Simply gather your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do all the work for you. No stirring, no hovering over the stove, just set it and forget it.

And the best part? You can customize the sauce to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat, a handful of fresh basil for a burst of freshness, or a splash of red wine for a touch of elegance. The possibilities are endless.

Versatility at Its Finest

One of the great things about marinara sauce is its versatility. It can be used as a base for countless Italian dishes, such as pasta, lasagna, pizza, and more. With a jar of slow cooker marinara sauce in your refrigerator, you'll always have a quick and delicious meal at your fingertips.

Not only does this sauce taste amazing, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. So you can feel good about indulging in your favorite Italian dishes.

In Conclusion

Slow cooker marinara sauce is a game-changer in the kitchen. It takes the hassle out of cooking while delivering incredible flavor and versatility. So why spend hours stirring a pot when you can let your slow cooker do all the work for you?

Frequently asked questions

Can I freeze slow cooker marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Slow cooker marinara sauce freezes beautifully. Simply let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and pop it in the freezer. It will keep for several months.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh tomatoes in your slow cooker marinara sauce. Just make sure to peel and deseed them before adding them to the slow cooker.

How long does it take to cook slow cooker marinara sauce?

The beauty of slow cooking is that it allows the flavors to develop over time. For the best results, cook your marinara sauce on low heat for 6-8 hours.

Can I make this sauce without onions and garlic?

While onions and garlic add depth and flavor to the sauce, you can certainly omit them if you have dietary restrictions or personal preferences. However, keep in mind that the taste may be slightly different.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh in your slow cooker marinara sauce. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.

Can I add meat to the sauce?

Absolutely! If you're a fan of meaty marinara sauce, feel free to add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even meatballs to your slow cooker. Just make sure to brown the meat before adding it to the sauce.

Can I make a larger batch of slow cooker marinara sauce?

Of course! Simply double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch of sauce. Just keep in mind that you may need a bigger slow cooker to accommodate the increased quantity.

Can I use this sauce as a dipping sauce?

Absolutely! Slow cooker marinara sauce makes a fantastic dipping sauce for breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, and even fries. It's the perfect accompaniment to any appetizer.

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables to your slow cooker marinara sauce. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are great options that add extra flavor and texture.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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