Spicy Vodka Sauce Recipe
Spicy Vodka Sauce Recipe isn't just a culinary treat; it's a vibrant dance of flavors that can transform any pasta dish into an extraordinary meal.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or food processor (optional, for smoother sauce)
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes adjust based on heat preference
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cooking the Base: In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil over a medium flame. Add the garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
- Deglaze with Vodka: Pour in the vodka, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly, which allows the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Cream it Up: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is heated through and begins to thicken.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently blend the grated Parmesan into the sauce, stirring until it's thoroughly melted and smoothly combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot over your favorite cooked pasta, garnishing with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Protein Add-In: Stir in cooked pancetta or crumbled sausage for a meaty version.
- Cheese Twist: Add dollops of ricotta or stir in some goat cheese for extra creaminess.
- Herb Freshness: Incorporate chopped fresh parsley or oregano for a herbal note.
- Seafood Delight: Add sautéed shrimp or scallops in the final minutes of cooking for a luxurious seafood pasta.
- Smoky Depth: Include a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.