Spicy Tomato-Basil Sauce

By mirelsonp

For topping Pan-Seared Polenta

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes with added puree (from two 28-ounce cans), divided
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 4 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 4 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds (finely crushed in plastic bag)
• 3/8 teaspoon (or more) dried crushed red pepper
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil, divided
• 1/3 cup dry white wine
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• freshly ground black pepper

Details

Servings 5

Preparation

Step 1

Place 1 cup crushed tomatoes in blender.

Add pine nuts and blend until very smooth, about 1 minute.

Heat oil in heavy large pot over medium-low heat. Add onion, garlic, fennel seeds and 3/8 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper. Saute' until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Add remaining crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons chopped basil, wine, and oregano. Scrape in tomato mixture from blender and stir to combine.

Simmer sauce until flavors blend, 5 to 6 minutes. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and more dried crushed red pepper, if desired. Do Ahead: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool, cover, and chill.

Rewarm sauce. Mix in remaining chopped basil.