1/2 -1tspchili flakesomit if using spicy Italian sausage
8- 12ouncesof a mix of ground beefground pork and ground veal or you can use 50/50 beef and italian sausage, spicy or mild
1/4cupvermouth or dry white wine
olive oil
2 28ouncecans of tomatoesSan Marzano or domestic, Muir Glen
Instructions
I use a food processor to finely chop the vegetables. Heat olive oil in saucepan (min 4 quart size), add onion, carrot, celery, parsley & salt; saute 3-4 minutes until fragrant and soft, add garlic cook additional minute. Add ground meats, cook over medium low heat, until meat is no longer pink. Break up any chunks of meat with a spatula while cooking. Add vermouth and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes.
Puree tomatoes using food processor or a food mill. Do not over process, bits of tomatoes are fine, texture is good.
Add tomatoes to pan along with chili flakes. Simmer 20 minutes, until slightly thickened. If you like a thicker sauce, leave uncovered, if not, partially cover during simmer. Taste for seasoning.
Just before serving add 2 T butter and 1/4 cup julienned or chopped fresh basil.
Notes
Variations: Addition of 1/4 cup finely diced pancetta to ground meats, adds smokiness to dish.
Instead of butter, finish off sauce with 1/4 cup heavy cream.