Mara’s Meat Sauce

Mara’s Meat Sauce

I could eat 4 bowls like this…

2 lbs lean ground beef

1 large onion, minced

1 large green pepper, minced

4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

2 Tbsp. olive oil

2 32-oz. cans crushed tomatoes

1 32 oz tomato sauce

the following are to taste, but measurements are what I used:

1 Tbsp. dried oregano

2 Tbsp. dried basil

1 tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. sugar

2 bay leaves

Directions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil. When it is hot, add the garlic, onions, and green pepper, and sautee until onions and garlic are transluscent. Add the ground beef and brown thoroughly, breaking up into small pieces. Add tomatoes, herbs, and spices to taste. Reduce heat, stir well, cover and simmer at least 1 hour, up to 3 hours. Continually taste and adjust seasonings. Uncover, and simmer another 20 minutes or so, stirring every few minutes. Serve over pasta or polenta with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese.