The Debate Over Red Wine in Spaghetti Sauce: A Depth-Enhancing Addition or a Flavor Overload?

Is red wine an integral part of your pasta sauce? Or does the idea of incorporating it send a shiver down your spine? The choice to add red wine to your spaghetti sauce is deeply personal and subjective, evoking strong opinions from those who embrace the tradition.

Adding Red Wine to the Sauce: A Time-Tested Technique

For those who favor the inclusion of red wine in their spaghetti sauce, the reason is clear. Red wine not only adds depth and umami notes but also helps evaporate any sharpness from the acidity. As some would say, you should cook the red wine slightly before adding the tomatoes to ensure that the alcohol has reduced appropriately. This technique is classically illustrated in the prison cooking scene from the film GoodFellas, where this method is showcased.

Additionally, using red wine can enhance the complexity of the sauce. However, it is important to balance this with the addition of a teaspoon of sugar to counteract the acidity it might introduce. However, it’s worth noting that the use of stock (either meat or vegetable) is not necessary, as the sauce should rely on its natural ingredients for flavor.

White Wine as a Substitution: A More Neutral Choice

If red wine isn’t to your taste or is not available, white wine can be a great alternative. Although it might not offer the same umami richness, it still contributes to the overall flavor of the sauce. Some might also argue that white wine can be particularly suitable for dishes like ragù alla Bolognese or spaghetti with mussels. However, for traditional tomatoes-based sauces, the best choice remains red wine.

Red Wine in Traditional Recipes: A House of House Recipe

In some kitchens, there are strict guidelines for how traditional recipes should be cooked. However, it's important to note that variations are common, often influenced by local ingredients. Adding red wine to a tomato sauce is a technique that showcases di casa, or "from the house," which highlights the authentic and familial approach to cooking.

It’s worth mentioning that for those who strictly adhere to authentic Italian cooking, particularly if using whole-wheat pasta, adding red wine is seen as a deviation from tradition. As one might say, using whole-wheat pasta in such dishes could label one as a philistine, though it's a matter of personal choice and preference.

No Red Wine: A Simpler Approach

For purists, the idea of using red wine in a tomato sauce is anathema. A traditional tomato sauce should be simple and rely on the quality of its ingredients. This means using olive oil, fresh herbs like basil, sage, and thyme (depending on the recipe), and of course, great tomato paste or tomatoes. No wine, no improvisation—just pure, straightforward flavor.

Alternatively, for a quick, simple, and inexpensive option, you can make a classic tomato sauce by frying diced onions in butter, cooking the mixture with white wine, then adding canned tomatoes. This recipe can be versatile, accompanying dishes like meatballs or even vegetarian options. Adding chopped mushrooms, grated zucchini, and/or carrot can elevate the sauce's complexity, and topping it with Parmesan cheese will delight your guests with its rich flavor.

Ultimately, whether you choose to include red wine in your spaghetti sauce or opt for a wine-free, simple tomato sauce, the decision comes down to personal taste and adherence to tradition. Both methods can produce delicious and satisfying dishes, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of pasta-making.