Valentine’s Day is coming up and a delicious meal is a great way to celebrate with loved ones. Whether they are your family, a boyfriend or girlfriend, or even your pet… In keeping with the feeling of amoré, this recipe is my Italian Grandma Rose’s Spaghetti and Meatballs. Be prepared to share the love because this recipe is great for leftovers or a big party.
‘Saucy’ Spaghetti and Meatballs
Spaghetti Sauce
2 cans chopped tomatoes
5-6 tablespoons tomato puree
1 box passata
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 large can mushrooms drained (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of sugar
Handful of grated parmesan cheese
118 – 177 ml water, depending on how thick or thin you want the sauce
Meatballs
700 g minced beef and pork
1 or 2 eggs
34 g bread crumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
59 ml milk
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large pot, add diced tomatoes, tomato puree and passata. Add remaining ingredients.
Mix thoroughly on medium high heat for 20 minutes.
While the sauce is cooking, mix all the meatball ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl and shape them into 2.5cm balls.
Drop the meatballs into the sauce one at a time. Be careful if you move the meatballs in the sauce to make room.
Cook covered on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Remove the cover for last half-hour of cooking time to thicken the sauce.
Serve over favourite pasta with a side of garlic bread.
If you cannot afford the restaurants and reservations then ditch that and enjoy an intimate and thoughtful dinner on a budget!