Grandpa Joe's
Greek Tomato Sauce

This is a wonderful accompaniment to Stuffed Grape Leaves.  I also use it for preparing Greek-style green beans.

About this recipe

I love this sauce for its rich Mediterranean flavors.  I am hardly an expert on Greek cuisine, so I cannot vouch for its ethnic authenticity, but I can assure you it complements a wide variety of dishes.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 12 ounces tomato paste
  • 1½ cups dry white wine
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • freshly ground black pepper

Directions

  1. In a medium-size saucepan, soften the onions and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until they just begin to brown. 
  2. Add the tomato paste, wine, water, herbs, and seasonings.
  3. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes.
  4. Push through a fine-mesh strainer with a large spoon or ladle.
  5. Bring to a simmer before serving hot.
Green beans with Greek Tomato Sauce.
Posted: March 2014.