American Marinara Sauce I

• olive oil — 2 tbsp
• yellow onion — 1 whole (medium, finely chopped)
• garlic — 4 clove (minced)
• crushed tomatoes — 28 fl oz
• tomato paste — 6 fl oz
• dried basil — 1 tsp
• dried oregano — 1 tsp
• Salt — 0.50 tsp
• black pepper — 0.25 tsp (freshly ground)
• granulated sugar — 1 tsp (to balance acidity)

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until the oil begins to shimmer, about 1–2 minutes.(2 min)
2. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until completely softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.(5 min)
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant. Lower the heat if needed — do not let the garlic brown or it will turn bitter.(1 min)
4. Add the tomato paste and stir it into the onion mixture. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to caramelize the paste and develop a richer, deeper color and flavor.(2 min)
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir everything together until fully combined.(1 min)
6. Season with the dried basil, dried oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the seasonings evenly.(1 min)
7. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened nicely and the flavors have melded together.(25 min)
8. Taste and adjust seasoning: add more salt for depth, a touch more sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic, or extra pepper for heat. Remove from heat and serve immediately over your dish of choice.(1 min)