In her book, “Lidia’s Commonsense Italian Cooking,” Lidia Bastianich recounts the story of how her mother used to prepare Sunday Sauce in their small Italian village. It was a day of rest and relaxation, family members could come together, share stories, and break bread. The main ingredient of Sunday Sauce was pork, which symbolized the abundance of life.
The ritual of preparing Sunday Sauce was a labor of love that would take several hours. The pork would be slowly cooked in a mixture of garlic, onion, bay , and tomatoes until it was tender and flavorful. The sauce would then be set aside to rest, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the sauce was ready, Lidia’s mother would prepare various meats, such as sausages, meatballs, and braciole, to be cooked in the sauce. The aroma of the meat cooking in the sauce filled the house, and everyone could hardly wait for it to be ready. While the meat simmered in the sauce, her mother would prepare pasta or polenta to serve alongside.
The Sunday Sauce ritual continued in Lidia’s family even after they immigrated to the United States. It was a way to honor their heritage and keep their traditions alive. As Lidia became a chef and opened her own restaurant, she continued to serve Sunday Sauce to her customers as a way to share her culture and traditions.
For Lidia, Sunday Sauce represents more than just a meal. It is a symbol of family, community, and love. It is a reminder of the importance of coming together and sharing a meal with those you care about.
Today, Sunday Sauce continues to be a popular dish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. Its versatility allows for variations in ingredients and preparation methods, but the essence remains the same – a slow-cooked, flavorful sauce that brings people together.
Lidia Bastianich has become an ambassador for Italian cuisine, and her passion for Sunday Sauce has helped keep this tradition alive. Her cookbooks, television shows, and restaurant have all played a role in spreading the word about this beloved dish. Through her work, Lidia has taught people about the importance of family, community, and tradition, and how food can bring people together in a meaningful way.
In conclusion, Sunday Sauce is a dish that has stood the test of time and continues to be a cherished tradition in many households. Lidia Bastianich’s story of Sunday Sauce has helped to keep this tradition alive and has reminded us of the importance of family and community. As we gather around our tables and share a meal with loved ones, let us remember the story of Sunday Sauce and the legacy it represents.