How to make a simple Greek tomato sauce

[mastichas09]

My family used to make a simple Greek tomato sauce to put over spaghetti. I have no idea if this is "Greek" and something that people do in Greece, but it was simple and had Greek flavors. This is what my family did:

• Sauce together 1 chopped tomato and 2 garlic cloves in some olive oil
• Add a large can of crushed tomatoes, some pepper, a cinnamon stick, and some dried Greek oregano
• Bring to a boil, covered, then let it simmer for about 30 minutes
• Serve over spaghetti with some grated Greek cheese or Romano or Parmesan.

 

[PemiKanavos]

Hi Mastichas09,

Each family or I should say each region of Greece has some basic base of how to make a simple tomato sauce. Some like to use spices like clove or cinnamon or even allspice, others just use onion and no garlic. Some add capers. It would all depend on what was available in that region.
I would say experiment and see what you like and make it your own greek sauce.

 

[mastichas09]

Hi Mastichas09,

Each family or I should say each region of Greece has some basic base of how to make a simple tomato sauce. Some like to use spices like clove or cinnamon or even allspice, others just use onion and no garlic. Some add capers. It would all depend on what was available in that region.
I would say experiment and see what you like and make it your own greek sauce.

I think you're right - I will experiment with different flavors and concepts until I hit my stride. I had a version once that was very cinnamon forward. It was nice for a change but I am not sure that is my every day. I think I would do a nice fresh cinnamon stick instead of ground cinnamon to infuse the flavor in but not overpower.Thanks for the advice!

 

[k_tsoukalas]

My family uses ground meat (usually beef) ... that had been fried in onion, then add water, tomato paste, and cinnamon. Very simple and delicious.