Embrace the rustic charm of our slow-cooker Italian-style pork sauce, a dish that exudes the nostalgic simplicity and heartiness of homemade recipes passed down through generations. Drawing inspiration from our Italian grandmothers, we sought the perfect blend of flavors that would evoke a sense of comfort and tradition. Our key ingredient? Country-style pork ribs, which undergo a tender transformation during their leisurely stint in the slow cooker, easily yield to the gentle pressure of a spoon. To craft a rich and flavorful sauce, we combined the savory trio of tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and tomato puree, adding a dash of soy sauce to elevate the meatiness to a new level. The true essence of the old-country flavor comes alive with the addition of a generous 12 cloves of garlic—a simple yet powerful touch. Once you savor the delightful combination of tender pork and robust sauce, you’ll be transported to a warm and welcoming Italian kitchen.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 onions, chopped fine
- 12 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano or 2 teaspoons dried
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (28-ounce) can tomato puree
- 3/4 cup dry red wine
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 pounds boneless country-style pork ribs, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- Salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
PREPARATIONS:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped onions, minced garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Microwave the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened (about 5 minutes). Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato puree, red wine, soy sauce, and bay leaves in the slow cooker. Season the pork ribs with salt and pepper, then nestle them into the slow cooker. Cover and cook until the pork is tender, either 9 to 11 hours on low heat or 5 to 7 hours on high heat.
- After cooking, allow the sauce to settle for 5 minutes, then use a large spoon to skim off any fat from the surface. Discard the bay leaves and gently break up the pork pieces using a spoon. Before serving, stir in the minced parsley and season with salt and pepper according to taste.
YIELD:
- This delightful recipe yields approximately 18 servings of the sumptuous Italian-style pork sauce when paired with 3 pounds of pasta.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- As the sauce cooks, make sure to remove any excess fat that accumulates on the surface using a spoon, ensuring a delicious and less greasy sauce.
TIPS:
- Consider serving this savory pork sauce with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, to enjoy a wholesome and satisfying meal.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
- Calories: 440
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
In conclusion, our Slow-Cooker Italian-Style Pork Sauce brings the taste of traditional Italian cooking straight to your table, offering a heartwarming and soul-satisfying experience. The savory combination of tender country-style pork ribs, luscious tomato-based sauce, and the comforting aroma of garlic and oregano evoke memories of cherished family gatherings and cozy meals shared with loved ones.
By embracing the slow cooker method, we’ve transformed simple country-style pork ribs into tender morsels that practically melt in your mouth. The gentle and extended cooking process allows the pork to absorb the rich flavors of the tomato-based sauce, infusing each bite with an irresistible taste that’s synonymous with classic Italian cuisine.
The use of tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and tomato puree not only provides a delightful balance of textures but also enhances the sauce with a depth of flavor that comes from the perfect combination of ingredients. The addition of soy sauce, a surprising but ingenious element, contributes a distinct umami note, elevating the meatiness to a new dimension.
With each spoonful, the intoxicating fragrance of garlic and oregano transports you to an Italian kitchen, where generations of skilled cooks have perfected their cherished recipes. The subtle heat of the red pepper flakes, along with the earthy and aromatic oregano, adds a touch of warmth that complements the pork and tomatoes harmoniously.
Our Slow-Cooker Italian-Style Pork Sauce is an invitation to savor the simplicity and authenticity of Italian peasant cuisine—a cuisine that celebrates the beauty of humble and wholesome ingredients. Whether you enjoy it with pasta, polenta, or even on its own with crusty bread, this dish is a celebration of the comforting and delicious flavors that have stood the test of time.
Experience the joy of preparing a meal that captures the essence of cherished culinary traditions, and let the slow cooker do the work while you reap the rewards. Gather around the table with loved ones and savor the taste of home-cooked goodness, and as you indulge in each mouthwatering bite, you’ll feel the connection to the generations that came before us, keeping the love and tradition of Italian cooking alive.
