Spaghetti with Vodka Sauce

Its was just one of those weeks, the start of the week and my hubby felt exhausted and his voice seemed out of sheen already. I thought what better way to lighten him up than with some comforting food. Italian being his all time favorite,  here's what i cooked to score a perfect 10 :)

  

     Ingredients:

• 7 oz Spaghetti 

      For the sauce :

• 4 tsp Olive oil
• 5 cloves of grated garlic
• 1 medium chopped Spanish onion
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3/4 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• 1/2 cup clear vodka
• 15 oz Pureed tomatoes (try San Marzano's)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt & pepper
• Handful of grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or oregano to garnish

Take your biggest non stick pan , heat the oil. Add onions,garlic- cook till translucent. Further add red pepper flakes. Rub oregano or thyme between your palms and add to the mixture. Oregano crushed this way releases the essential oils from the dried herb. Now add vodka , stir and let the mixture reduce to half . Add pureed tomatoes , salt and pepper to taste and stir . Cover and cook  for 20 mins, lightly stirring in between. 

In the meantime, take a deep oval pan with loads of water, 3 tsp salt and a drizzle of olive oil -- bring to a boil. Place the spaghetti in boiling water and cook till al dente' and drain. To check if my pasta is done , i generally  press some against the vessel walls, if the pasta gives in , its done.

Onto the sauce, once your timer beeps after 20 mins, add heavy cream to the sauce  and mix. Switch the flame to low and add the drained spaghetti . Mix by tossing lightly. Add half of the grated cheese and toss. Switch off the flame now.

Chiffonade some basil to garnish. Laddle the spaghetti in  your serving platter, garnish with the rest of the cheese and  fresh basil. Authentic in flavor and style, a perfect blanket for your tummy !! Pair it with a  glass of of your favorite wine and feel blessed.