Are you ready to elevate your culinary game with a sauce that will make your taste buds dance? This Eastern European sauce is not just a condiment – it's a flavor-packed journey that turns ordinary stuffed cabbage balls into an extraordinary dining experience. With a perfect blend of aromatic garlic, sweet paprika, and rich tomato base, this sauce is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Eastern European
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Sprinkle paprika into the pan and stir quickly to coat the onions and garlic, allowing the spice to bloom and release its rich, warm flavor for about 15-20 seconds.
- Pour the tomato sauce into the pan, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Reduce heat to low-medium to allow the sauce to simmer gently.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed to achieve a balanced flavor profile.
- Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and slightly reduce the sauce for a richer consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce rest for 5 minutes before serving over stuffed cabbage balls to allow the flavors to further develop.
Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the most vibrant flavor – pre-minced garlic from a jar just won't compare!
- Take your time when sautéing onions – letting them become truly translucent is key to building a deep, rich flavor base.
- When adding paprika, work quickly and stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even distribution of flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasonings gradually – you can always add more salt and pepper, but you can't take them away.
- Let the sauce simmer uncovered to allow natural reduction and flavor concentration.
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or basil.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or broth; if it's too thin, continue simmering to reduce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
