1. Brown the Meats:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage and pork ribs. Brown them well on all sides, then remove and set aside. If making your own meatballs, you can brown them in the same pot as well.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the remaining fat, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Deglaze and Simmer:
- Add the tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and water or red wine. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the browned meats to the pot. Add sugar (if using), bay leaves, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Low and Slow Cooking:
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for at least 4 hours, ideally longer, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be.
5. Final Touches:
- About 30 minutes before serving, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Remove the bay leaves.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or wine. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken.
6. Serve:
- Serve the Sunday Gravy over cooked pasta, typically a sturdy type like rigatoni or spaghetti.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
- Grated Parmesan cheese is a must on the side for sprinkling.
Tips for the Best Sunday Gravy:
- Meat Choices: Feel free to vary the meats based on what’s available or preferred. Some families use braciole or even chicken pieces.
- Cooking Time: The longer you can let the sauce simmer, the better the flavor. Some families start it in the morning and let it cook all day, stirring occasionally.
- Make Ahead: This sauce usually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Sunday Gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition that brings families together. Enjoy the process of cooking, the wonderful aromas filling your home, and most importantly, the time spent sharing a meal with loved ones.