Smoky Apple Cider Marinara Sauce

SMOKY APPLE CIDER MARINARA SAUCE

If you’re wondering what apples and tomatoes have in common it’s this superbly engineered simple marinara sauce. Hey, they’re both fruits; they’re both acidic and sweet and they just happen to compliment each other. Serve over your favorite pasta, with pan-fried veggie chicken or use in any recipe calling for marinara sauce!

Makes 7 cups

2 T. margarine

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

8 lg. fresh garlic cloves, peeled and very thinly sliced

2 t. dried basil

2 t. dried tarragon

1/2 t. ground allspice

28 oz. can diced tomatoes

28 oz. can tomato puree

6 oz. can tomato paste

1 c. apple cider

2 t. plus to taste liquid smoke

2 t. garlic powder

salt and pepper to taste

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In large pot, over medium-low heat, melt margarine with oil.

Add sliced garlic, basil, tarragon and allspice. Saute, stirring often till garlic aroma fills the air, 3-5 minutes.

Add remaining ingredients, stirring after each addition. Cook at a slow bubble of a boil for about 20-30 minutes, stirring as needed. Salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately over pasta, or save to reheat and serve later.

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Notes: Watch to be sure not to burn the garlic. However, when using a sufficient amount of oil/margarine, the garlic is less apt to burn as long as you keep the heat low and stir often.

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