1 lb. ground sirloin (I like 96/4) ………........... extra-virgin olive oil
2-3 TB crushed or minced garlic ……............1 small white or yellow onion, chopped
1-2 tsp dried oregano……………...………... 3-4 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary (if available)............1 sprig fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes ….........……. 1-2 tsp sugar
1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes (preferably Italian seasoned)
1-2 carrots, peeled & finely grated (yes!) ~ depending on size
2-3 tsp salt (sea or Kosher), or more to taste
1/2 package extra firm tofu (cut into small cubes) - optional
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes…….........… 1-2 tsp ground pepper
freshly grated or shaved Parmesan or Parmiagano-Reggino
1 lb. spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
***
In large pot, sauté onions in a little olive oil until tender; add garlic and sauté a minute or so ~ add crumbled up ground beef and brown. Add all herbs, tomatoes, tofu, spices and carrots ~ simmer for at least 45 minutes (or up to several hours). Before serving, take the rosemary stalks out!
Serve over cooked pasta with freshly grated cheese
Serves 3-6 (depending on how hungry y’all are!)
NOTE: You won’t taste the carrots, but their natural sweetness will counteract the acidity of the tomatoes, and they will help thicken the sauce (also add vitamins!)