Sugo finto (“Fake” Sauce)

Ingredients

• 1 medium or 1 large onion (preferably red)
• 1 medium stalk celery
• 1 medium carrot
• A spring of fresh parsley (sage and rosemary)
• A splash of red wine
• 1/2 large can (or 400g (14 oz) fresh, tomatoes)
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. 1

   Finely chop the onion, carrot, celery and herbs together into a rough paste.

2. 2

   In a saucepan or braiser, sauté the vegetables and herbs gently in olive oil until it is perfectly tender, taking care not to brown the onions. A pinch of salt and a few drops of water as you sauté will help things along and avoid browning.

3. 3

   Add a splash of red wine and let it evaporate. Then add the tomatoes to the pot. Let everything simmer for a good 30 minutes or so, stirring from time to time, until you have a nice, thick sauce.

4. 4

   Serve with the pasta of your choice.