For many families, the act of preparing a meal goes beyond mere sustenance; it embodies tradition and shared memories. This is especially true for the DiResto family, who cherish the making of their beloved Long Island Sunday sauce. This dish, often referred to as “Sunday gravy” by some, is deeply rooted in family history and culinary practices passed down through generations.
Seeking to capture the essence of this cherished recipe, I turned to my father, Robert DiResto, an 84-year-old Long Island resident. As a child, I often found myself at his side in the kitchen, absorbing the skills and secrets he had honed over the years. I called him for guidance on the best way to approach this article and to solidify my understanding of how this sauce has become such a staple in our family.
During our conversation, my father immediately recognized the dish I was referencing, exclaiming, “Oh yeah, you mean Sunday sauce!” When I mentioned the alternative name “Sunday gravy,” he responded with a playful grimace. “Ech, we didn’t call it that, but wha’do-I-know?” His genuine enthusiasm for the dish soon took center stage as he reminisced about his childhood experiences.
Sunday sauce has been a DiResto family tradition for decades. My father painted a vivid picture of weekends when the family returned from church, and his mother, Nana Aggie, would be hard at work in the kitchen. He recalls the delightful aromas of pork browning in a large pot, sausages sizzling, and meatballs cooking in another pan. “I would sneak into the kitchen, hoping no one would catch me, and dip bread into the sauce,” he chuckled, a nostalgic smile evident in his voice.
This culinary tradition contrasts sharply with its portrayal in popular culture. In films like The Godfather, the preparation of sauce becomes a matter of bravado, with characters discussing how to cater for large gatherings. In one iconic scene, Clemenza instructs Michael on the steps to create the sauce, emphasizing the addition of sugar as a secret ingredient. It is worth noting, however, that many prefer to add a touch of sweetness through fresh basil instead.
Another classic film, Goodfellas, depicts the meticulous preparation of sauce, though with a hint of danger. Paulie slicing garlic with a razor blade highlights the intense dedication to cooking but may not be the best practice, as burnt garlic can ruin the flavor. These cinematic interpretations underscore a key aspect of Sunday sauce: it requires time, often simmering for four hours, but the process remains straightforward and approachable.
Creating a good Sunday sauce does not necessitate expensive ingredients. Traditionally, this hearty meal is designed to feed large families without breaking the bank. The choice of meat can vary: bone-in pork contributes to a rich, flavorful broth, while using country ribs enhances the dish’s essence.
The recipe I followed includes essential components that define the DiResto family version of Sunday sauce. Using 2 28-ounce cans of whole San Marzano tomatoes and approximately 3-4 pounds of pork country ribs, the process begins by preparing the sauce base, which involves browning the meat and sautéing onions and garlic.
The cooking method is straightforward, allowing for moments of unattended simmering. After browning the pork and adding onions and garlic, the addition of red wine and beef broth brings depth to the sauce. Over time, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is more than just pasta topped with red sauce.
When it comes to the meatballs, the recipe includes a blend of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, and a touch of prosciutto for added flavor. As they cook, the meatballs absorb the rich sauce, creating a satisfying meal that evokes warmth and togetherness.
As the sauce simmers, it is essential to monitor the consistency, adding beef stock or wine as needed. When the time is right, the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection and tossed with the sauce—a crucial step that ensures every strand is coated in the rich, meaty goodness.
In the end, serving the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan and a side of good bread completes the meal, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This is more than just a dish; it represents family bonds, shared experiences, and the love that goes into cooking together.
The legacy of Sunday sauce continues to thrive in families across the globe, reminding us all of the importance of tradition in our culinary practices. Whether called sauce or gravy, it brings people together, offering a taste of home that transcends generations.
